I must have laughed and cried a thousand times... -- Message from Gary Robinson

[lisamcogutu]

[The following is a featured post written by Gary Robinson, who is the author of the May 2018 Book of the Month, The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid]


I must have laughed and cried a thousand times while writing nearly every page of this book because The Sword Swallower was a close and dear friend of mine.

Writing this book was therapeutic and joyful. As I created the story, I could hear The Sword Swallower’s voice, see his face, and feel the presence of my friend.

The book is fiction, but much of this story is based on actual experiences. I wanted to write a book that was entertaining from sentence to sentence so that if you didn't read it from the first chapter you would still find the story interesting and engaging.

Duke Reynolds' life is made for storytelling. He ran away from home and joined the circus at the age of fifteen. He learned how to swallow swords and traveled with the strangest characters of the circus sideshow that were affectionately known as the “freaks”. The freaks loved the work, they loved the life, and they especially loved each other.

I also wanted to share a part of my own story. I hope you find the ridiculous social events of the 80’s contained within this book to be hysterical. I am happy to report that our culture has evolved from that type of stupidity, but this was my life for several years. I attempted to portray the character of this endearing alcoholic in a more unusual perspective. I wanted you to root for this Chico kid and see him as ‘the good guy’ despite his degenerate addictions. My intention was for you to read about my immature choices in life, shake your head and say, “What a mess. I just want to sit him down and talk some sense into him!”

This book is full of interesting people and unique adventures that you have most likely never read in any other story. You will love the characters described in this tale.

I believe that meeting The Sword Swallower was no coincidence. Without his influence, I most likely would have died at some point from drug overdose or alcoholism. When we met, we both suffered from addictions and I describe when and how each of us started our drug and alcohol abuse. Duke had much more control of his drug use than I did. He was close to dying from cancer and was just living out his last days. I wanted you to experience the dialogue between us while we immersed ourselves in what we called “medicine”. Even with the aforementioned addictions discussed, you will find this book filled with humor. It is a very entertaining tale.

This is a story of redemption and finding the most peculiar soul to teach me how to find inspiration.

I can proudly say I have raised three children since our adventures ended. They are all in college now and are gainfully employed. I also have a wonderful career and play a mean harmonica.

I am currently writing another story and hope to finish by the end of the year. I do not want to give too many of the details away, but I intend to discuss other social issues and present a different class of unusual characters while they embark on their adventure.

Thank you again for taking the time to read this letter. I truly hope you enjoy The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid. If you do have a chance to read my book, I would love to discuss it with you. I can be reached at Grobinbooks on Facebook, @Grobinbooks on Twitter, or you can visit my website at www.GrobinBooks.com.


Regards,
Gary Robinson

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View The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid on Bookshelves

So touching indeed. I never knew someone would open up with their deepest sorrows of life. Have a fruitful life pal, and too bad that the sword swallower's had to be a painful one. I'm lost for words. I don't know whether to congratulate you or emulate you. You such a being. This has been a book that has turned the lives of many. As much as I haven't read the full book, the sample you gave on Amazon was so enlightening and the reviews too. And now your blurb, kudos man! Forge on! My you find fulfillment in life.

[Larry Victor Akpasen]

mix fortune,trying to say in once life we meet with sorrow and joy.

[denie2019]

Mr Robinson,your letter really made me want to read your book.Thank you for this glimpse into your world.I will be reading your book as soon as I can.

[thenuttybookblogger]

Today is my first day on this. Thank you for having me! Jackie USA IL

[GemBlu2]

I look forward to reading the book! I think a fiction book written from actual experience makes the read much more interesting and just adds to the imagination!

[Raesgreen]

Thank you for your letter, Gary. It truly made me understand how much of yourself went into writing this novel. It takes a lot of courage and strength to tell a story like this one. I look forward to reading it.

[Busi Maloka]

In life we must have such time where by we laugh at ourselves and remember that it won't always be like that.

[Xteen]

Dear Gary,

Thanks for your letter which to me paints an exciting picture of what to expect in your book The Sword Swallower and a Chico Kid. A book that is fiction based on real life experiences? I don't understand how it's fiction if the experiences are real, and that prompts me to want to find out!

I will be reading your book in the near future and will definitely let you know my REAL experience with the story.

Regards,
Christine.

[drwilson8548]

Thanks for the message. After reading this I now have a better understanding about the type of person and the personality of the Sword Swallower. I hope i have a great time reading this book as you did riding it.

[JIMTOWN]

Dear Gary
Thanks so much for the insight about your book. For sure you have aroused my reading appetite and I will be reading it the near future. Thanks very for the letter

[Berthalyn]

I have your book on my bookshelf and plan to start reading it soon. Thanks for the little "prips". It has certainly increased my desire to read the book. Will get back to you.

Berthalyn
Jamaica

[EmunahAn]

The book seems to cover a wide array of topics that seem interesting. The mention of adventures sparked curiosity in me. I would love to read the book.

[Janica]

Hi Gary,

Wow, your letter was really something special. I haven't read your book yet, but I will definitely try to get it quite soon.
The sword swallwer sounds like an interesting and gifted person and you seem to be one also, so I'm sure it is a wonderfully humane book. It's what I like about reading, discovering good adventures and freat people that can inspire to be better and help others, each in our own way to advance in the road of life.
A hug.

Jane

[belleami]

Thanks, Gary
Your story sounds intriguing and your book must be hilarious.
Good luck and thanks for sharing.

[ojosam94]

For over a hundred and twenty hours now, i have been unable to sustain quality time to get a book but i guess this should be the first book i will work on because it sounds interesting.
Nice one there.