Banvard's Folly: Tales Of Reknowned Obscurity, Famous Anonymity And Rotten Luck : Book Review

"Banvard's Folly: Thirteen Tales of Renowned Obscurity, Famous Anonymity, and Rotten Luck" by Paul Collins is a captivating and enlightening collection of stories that shines a light on forgotten individuals who were once at the center of attention. Collins delves into the lives of these obscure figures, highlighting their unique pursuits and ultimate disappointments. Spanning various time periods and backgrounds, the book offers a thought-provoking exploration of fame, success, and human ambition.

In "Banvard's Folly," each of the thirteen tales brings to life a different forgotten character, from a self-proclaimed artist with lofty ambitions to an aspiring opera singer who never received her moment in the spotlight. Through his engaging storytelling and meticulous historical research, Collins takes readers on a journey that is both informative and entertaining. As we delve into the lives of these individuals, we are encouraged to reflect on the concepts of success and failure, and how society determines one's worth.

The strength of the book lies in Collins' seamless transitions between time periods and perspectives, providing a comprehensive look at each narrative. His writing style is engaging and accessible, allowing readers to become fully immersed in the stories. Moreover, Collins's attention to detail is evident through his discovery of little-known facts about his subjects and their unusual pursuits.

"Banvard's Folly" is not simply a collection of forgotten and unfortunate stories; it serves as a commentary on the fleeting nature of fame and the elusive pursuit of recognition. Throughout the book, Collins challenges our notions of success and highlights the arbitrary nature of public adoration. This message resonates deeply, reminding us of the transient nature of fame and the significance of pursuing personal fulfillment rather than seeking external validation.

Overall, "Banvard's Folly" is a fascinating and thought-provoking read that brings forgotten individuals back to life. Paul Collins expertly weaves their stories together, offering a glimpse into the complexities of fame and success. This book is a testament to the quirks and peculiarities of human ambition, serving as a reminder to embrace our own pursuits, regardless of public recognition.

What are readers saying?

Banvard's Folly by Paul Collins is a book that has generated a range of opinions among readers. It delves into the lives of individuals who were once widely known but have since been forgotten. Here is a summary of the varying reviews for Banvard's Folly:

1. Many readers praised the thought-provoking concept of the book and found the stories incredibly fascinating. They appreciated how Collins brought attention to historical figures who have faded into obscurity, giving them a chance to be remembered. These readers found the narratives engaging and enjoyed the author's storytelling style.

2. Some reviewers commended the book for its informative nature and the extensive research that went into uncovering these forgotten characters. They felt that Collins effectively blended history with storytelling, resulting in an entertaining and educational read.

3. However, a few readers found Banvard's Folly to lack coherence, describing it as disjointed. They felt that the transitions between stories were abrupt and that the book lacked a central theme or message.

4. Some reviewers mentioned that while the stories were interesting, they found the pacing of the book to be slow. They felt that Collins delved too deeply into certain narratives, causing the overall flow of the book to suffer.

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