Official Review: The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid

[Scerakor]

I love a book that has done such an excellent job in character development, that you root for them despite all their flaws. Sword-swallowing for a circus must be an amazing adventure, and I can definitely see how he can have something to pass along to Gary considering their shared flaws.

[Farmgurl1]

I totally agree this book is very entertaining. I was hooked from the first chapter. I have just finished the first part of the book about Duke's life in the circus and his stunt devil acts. He is a man with demons but is also very likable and I agree the reader roots for his success. I am looking forward to reading the rest of the book and learning what fate has in store for Duke and the Chico kid!

[R-g-R]

It’s surprising when a book you wouldn’t initially choose, engages you and you find yourself enjoying it! Set in times past, it is good to hear from your review that the individual stories of the two characters are explored and then come together in the final part of the book. Reading the sample launched me into simultaneuos worlds: the life of a street/circus performer, the life of a bygone era, the life of an alcoholic and the life of someone doing what they can to live.
Thanks for your review.

[Marissa Michael]

I'm curious about the third part on how much they impact each other. Thanks for your review.

[Scrawling Pen]

I'm glad to hear that you enjoyed the book. It sounds like an interesting read. I usually enjoy books more that focus on character development, so I may have to try this one out. Thanks for the review!

[Surabhi Rani]

In the 'Official Review: The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid', by Gary Robinson, the reviewer does a fair job to the readers,by well-describing the book.

[Katiemhardy813]

I really enjoyed this story - in fact, I passed it on to my high schooler and encouraged her to read it. Her favorite book is The Outsiders, and that's what The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid reminded me of: a combination of The Outsider with The Elegance of the Hedgehog. It's philosophical, an intense read that draws you in and really makes you think about society, the hierarchy, and what happens to those who feel stuck. ARE we stuck? Can we change? How do we deal with the pressure? As many have said, this isn't an action novel, but there was just enough going on for me to both think intensely while I was reading, and also not get too lost in my head. I highly recommend!

[Manang Muyang]

I've always wondered how these brave artists can swallow swords and breathe fire. It would be interesting to get the inside story. The sample ended with Duke starting his training by controlling his gagging reflex. I could feel my throat itch.

[AA1495]

I'm glad that you liked the book. Congrats to the author on the 4/4 review. Thanks for the review.

[pilvi]

I just meant to sample the book a bit... And before I realized I had read the whole book Thanks for giving words for the experience.

[MantaRay]

Excellent review discussing authors ability to draw empathy and sympathy for somewhat sad characters immersed in alcoholism. This novel sounds interesting enough relative to character development to be worth a read.

[Iamsofia]

Great review. The book is really interesting, I loved it even though it wasn't my best kind of book.

[AbbyGNelson]

You first think it will be a crazy exotic book based on the title, but really it's a story of people their relationships and their struggles.

[Zuribooks]

Interesting... I know I would like this book... I like how you described it and how some awesome things can go out the flaws of the characters... Congrats!

[Gods Monkey]

I feel a 4 out of 4 rating is inappropriate due to the mistakes in the text mentioned. As far as the book itself I have no desire to read it simply because I’m not ok with reading about a functioning alcoholic.