Banvard's Folly: Thirteen Tales of People Who Didn't Change the World : Book Review

"Banvard's Folly: Thirteen Tales of People Who Didn't Change the World" by Paul Collins is a captivating collection of forgotten stories about individuals who, despite their unconventional pursuits, were largely overlooked by history. Collins skillfully presents these tales, offering a unique glimpse into the human desire for recognition and significance.

One standout story is that of John Banvard, the book's namesake, who painstakingly created the longest panorama ever made depicting the Mississippi River. Despite his monumental achievement, Banvard's name has been lost to time, shedding light on the fleeting nature of fame and success. Collins' vivid storytelling transports readers into Banvard's world, revealing the fascinating details of his ambitious project.

Through "Banvard's Folly," Collins explores the fundamental human need to be remembered and the lengths individuals will go to achieve recognition. Each story showcases the dreams, obsessions, and eccentricities of forgotten pioneers, from an inventor who tried to create perpetual motion to an artist who meticulously crafted maps of imaginary worlds.

Collins expertly weaves historical context into each tale, providing insights into the societal and cultural influences of the time. His extensive research and attention to detail bring these stories to life, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the lives of these forgotten visionaries.

In summary, "Banvard's Folly" is an enlightening and thought-provoking book that sheds light on the forgotten heroes and dreamers of the past. Paul Collins' narrative skill and his ability to bring history to life make this collection a must-read for anyone interested in the quirkier side of human ambition and the oft-overlooked stories of the past.

What are readers saying?

"Banvard's Folly," written by Paul Collins, has received a mix of reviews from readers. Some found the book to be an interesting and engaging read, praising Collins' storytelling abilities and the book's unique focus. They appreciated how the author delves into forgotten eccentricities and obsessions of historical figures, presenting their unusual and often bizarre pursuits. Readers found the book both enlightening and amusing, exploring lesser-known aspects of history that were both educational and entertaining.

However, there were also readers who expressed disappointment with the book. They criticized the disjointed nature of the stories and felt that the author failed to effectively connect them. According to these readers, the book lacked a coherent narrative and felt more like a collection of random facts, rather than a comprehensive exploration of the topic. Some also mentioned that the writing style could be dry at times, making it difficult to fully engage with the stories.

Furthermore, a few reviewers noted that some chapters were more interesting than others, resulting in an uneven reading experience. They felt that while some stories were captivating and well-researched, others fell flat and failed to hold their attention. These readers expressed a desire for more consistency throughout the book, wishing for a more even balance of engaging tales.

Despite the mixed reviews, many readers appreciated the author's dedication to unearthing obscure fragments of history and shedding light on lesser-known individuals. They acknowledged the effort Collins put into researching and compiling these stories, adding depth to their reading experience.

In conclusion, "Banvard's Folly" presents a diverse collection of stories that explore the eccentricities of historical figures. While some readers praise the book's unique content and engaging storytelling, others criticize its disjointed nature and lack of cohesion. If you enjoy delving into obscure historical trivia, this book may be worth a read.

BanvardsFollyBook BookRecommendation HistoricalCuriosities