In 1988 I purchased this paperback in a used bookstore. Though it was my first experience with historical fiction I was glued to each page. Mr. Fast is a brilliant story-teller that created characters that are exposed, raw, and real. This story has stayed with me all of these years, I often recommend it. Being a Sicilian-American that grew up in San Fransisco I could see the landscape in my mind and smell the streets with a hint of salt in the fog. This is not just a great read, it's an experience.
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A mediocre traveling circus during the Great Depression...What more can be said? From the first page (which doesn't happen often) I was hooked. This is a "page turner" in every sense. I marveled at Gruen's gift to tell yet another story about this period in history and give readers an entirely new perspective. As an animal lover/advocate this book has moments that broke my heart. The most satisfying and beautiful ending. Read it, cherish it, and pass it along. This book will stick with you-I guarantee it!
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When I read this book (recommended to me by a fellow Powell's shopper standing by) I was shocked that I had never heard about the New York Draft Riots in 1863. I have never really had any interest in American History. This book is well written and urges the reader on, even through tough subject matter. The characters are so very real, all of their human flaws exposed to create a web of very different viewpoints as they all work towards their common goal of survival. Gritty and palatable. You will find yourself transported to the streets of NY. This book inspired me to learn more about the Civil War, and especially this specific event in our history. Give it a chance, it's worth your time.
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