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There are currently 25 member reviews
for Circling the Sun
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Barbara H. (Richmond, IN)
A Favorite
Beryl Markham grew up in an Africa she loved. Having lived her life beyond the societal constraints of the late 19220' and the 1930's, she was a brave and independent woman who eventually flew solo across the Atlantic. Paula McClain brings Beryl Markham to life in Circling the Sun.
In the novel we get to hear the voice of Markham, meet her friends, understand the African-English society of the time, learn the difficulties of sustaining a living in Africa, and see the beauty of Africa. The author has written an exciting and almost poetic novel. Descriptions in Circling the Sun are not to be missed; they give the sense of place. It is a novel that is difficult to put down.
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Celia A. (Takoma Park, MD)
A different angle on Out of Africa
I'm embarrassed to admit that I had never heard of Beryl Markham before I read this book. She made some bad choices along the way, but what a strong woman. The thing that she ultimately became famous for is only a minor part of this book. Instead, the story that McLain tells could be considered the origin story of Beryl Markham the aviator. The descriptions of Africa and the colonists of the early 20th century are vivid. My main complaint is that the book drags in a couple of places, but never enough to make me want to stop reading. I didn't actually enjoy the book Out of Africa, but it's nice to read about the same characters from another perspective.
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Brenda D. (Lincoln, CA)
Circling the Sun
In descriptive, almost lyrical language, the story of Beryl Markham's early years are told in the first person. As you are reading, you must keep reminding yourself that she's such a young woman in this story. The experiences of her life in a relatively short period of time would fill another whole life. She was certainly ahead of her time.
This is a story about a remarkable woman, but it is also a story of Africa in the time of British colonization. You can see and feel the whole area through the descriptions of the topography, weather, wildlife, and people and how all are shaped by the environment.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it is a perfect read for fans of "Out of Africa." I am now inspired to re-read Beryl Markham's own book, "West With the Sun."
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Lesley F. (San Diego, CA)
Beryl Markham Heroine At Last
Circling the Sun by Paula McLain is a terrific read, summer or winter. Having learned much about Isak Dinesen and Denys Finch-Hatton in Out of Africa, it was nothing short of marvellous to hear the other side of that story. Beryl Markham was a feminist before it was popular and a great horse trainer besides being a great pilot (two things women "didn't do" in a Downton Abbey atmosphere in Kenya). McLain has done an amazing job of telling her story. I read it straight through. Off to get a copy of 'West With The Night' and hear Beryl's version as well. Also, finally, I will read The Paris Wife!
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Sandra G. (Loveland, CO)
A Wonderful Book about an Unconventional Woman
Beryl Markham was a remarkable woman, A rebel even as a child, Beryl stood up for her convictions. She had no tolerance for the conduct society expected of her. She had the courage and initiative to become a renowned horse trainer and pilot at a time when these aspirations were unheard of for a female. One cannot help but admire such a self-sufficient, free-spirited, and determined individual. When her father once commented that Beryl had never been afraid of anything, she replied, "I've been terrified…I just haven't let that stop me."
The novel kept my interest from the first page to the last. The writing was excellent with especially vivid descriptions of the people and places. (I must admit I could not read about Denys Finch-Hatton without seeing Robert Redford playing that role in Out of Africa!)
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Rosanne J. (Beaverton, OR)
Enjoyed This Book
Having been a fan of Out of Africa, i enjoyed this book. Paula McLains's descriptions and style are first-rate.
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Janet S. (Terrace Park, OH)
Enjoy the Ride!
Circling the Sun by Paula McLain is an interesting ride/journey. The book is well-written and tells the story of a real life heroine, Beryl Markham. I was unfamiliar with her before reading this book.
I came away having great respect for Beryl Markham and all of her accomplishments but at the same time felt she was confused, unlikeable and just not a very pleasant person. I particularly enjoyed Beryl's early growing up years, her love of horses, and her love of flying.
This is good historical fiction at its best. Enjoy the ride!
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