Genre: Historical Fiction
4 Stars
Very impressive story telling
Richard Martin writes a historical tale with Oranges for Magellan. I haven't read anything by this author before, and what a hidden gem. It is a very interesting story and a great one, especially as Martin's debut novel. The reader is introduced to Joe Magellan, who has a very good life, and is happy with it, except he has this overt compulsion. He wants to break a pole sitting record. Basically, he wants to climb up a flagpole, and sit on the small platform and break the world's record. This is a feat he has tried and failed at so many times, and even sought out "help" to no avail. It's part comedy and part drama, and a very intriguing look at Joe's perspective on life, and why this means so much to him. The book is historical because it takes in the early 80's. Yes, the 1980's, which I didn't realize until now that it was historical, having been a kid back then. Anyway, this is one of those books that grabs you from the start and pulls you in. The reader just embarks on an interesting journey. Joe's compulsion is pretty much an obsession, but one that makes the reader want to learn more. Oranges for Magellan is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I read this book to give my unbiased and honest review. Amy's Bookshelf Reviews recommends that anyone who reads this book, to also write a review.
