The Luckiest Fool on Earth: The Twisted Yarn of America’s Greatest Flagpole Sitter, Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly by Phillip S. Roberts (Book Review #2246)

Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly, an American daredevil who had worked in many professions, including sailor, boxer, stuntman, and pole-sitter, is a unique character from the 1920s and early 30s. The author, Phillip Roberts, brings Kelly to life in The Luckiest Fool on Earth, a beautifully written historical fiction novel that incorporates numerous real-life events of Shipwreck’s life, as well as the unique challenges and triumphs he faced during an extreme life filled with both thrill-seeking stunts and an immense amount of public success.

Shipwreck Kelly held the world record for pole sitting over the Atlantic City boardwalk for 49 days, and many would consider him to be a “lucky” fool. However, Roberts incorporates into his book the struggles that came along with this fame. Through his use of humour, Roberts is able to develop an interesting and entertaining portrait of an incredibly ambitious personality who was also a vulnerable individual living on the edge.

Fans of historical fiction will find much to enjoy through the use of atmosphere and character development. Additionally, fans of quirky Americana will appreciate the vintage look of Kelly’s life and the experiences that occurred during this time frame.

The Luckiest Fool on Earth presents a comprehensive historical portrait of an extraordinary and unique character who chased the sky while the ground crumbled below him.

This book is original, incredibly entertaining, and has a surprisingly powerful message. It is heartwarming and inspiring.

Written by Jeyran Main

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