Review by Rosalita467 -- The Sword Swallower and a Chico...

[Rosalita467]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid" by Gary Robinson.]

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4 out of 4 stars

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In The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid author Gary Robinson spins an ever-engaging story of two men who are anything but ordinary. The book begins with the life story of Duke Reynolds “The Sword Swallower” as he propels into the circus life at the age of 15. A tumultuous home life leads him to seek out this new exciting life that is the circus. It chronicles his life from this early start to learning the very rare art of sword swallowing. Many twists and turns lie in Duke’s wake throughout his journey with the circus life. This then leads into part 2 of the book and how it intertwines with the character Gary Robinson which, as the author states in the preface of the book, is loosely based on himself.

Gary’s story begins with his high school graduation day as he addresses the student body. As one of “the best students” the principal praises Gary prior to him taking the stage intoxicated. From there Gary begins a downward spiral that includes alcohol, drugs and trysts with women. Gary’s life becomes a blur and has no apparent direction. Step in Duke Reynolds as an older wiser version of himself. And so, begins the third part of the book, how the two men meet and develop an interestingly odd relationship.

The story of the two men was inspirational, the hardships along the way made reading this book hard to put down. I enjoyed it, it was something different than your run of the mill read. It has highs and lows and has its messages throughout. There was fights with addiction throughout the book. I did feel that the alcohol and drug use was a little much at times and went a bit overboard, but I assume the author felt it necessary for the overall message he was inspired to get across.

This book kept me engaged throughout. I’m giving it 4 out of 4 stars for good reason. It was well thought out and wonderfully implemented to make the reader root for both men throughout the book. Yes, there were many lows in the book, but the highs were well spoken and overall leaves the reader with a good feeling.

I believe this book will appeal to varying age groups and men as well as women. I do not believe it is suited for teens do to the drug and alcohol use, a couple sexual references also. This book should appeal to readers who have or had problems with addiction. Possibly people who maybe have a hard time “fitting in” so to speak would enjoy this read. With that said the book can fit in the inspirational genre. Another audience would be those who like a good work of fiction with a message or meaning in a book.

The book is fictional and loosely based on the author’s experiences, but you could really sense the authors passion in this book. I’m glad I had the opportunity to read it!

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The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid
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