McLain’s writing carves out Beryl’s life much in the way an artist sculpts out a statue. First it is a dream, then an image, and finally a beautiful piece of art. Between the lines and chapters, McLain hums a quiet steady beat with her chisel. She chips us through Africa and sweeps us across the sea, all to tell a story of one woman, one soul, looking and learning and hoping and doing. There’s failure and sorrow, joy and a deep, aching love….for Africa, for man, for adventure. I’ve read Beryl’s written story “West With The Night” and McLain’s brings it to life again. “Circling The Sun” is beautifully written.
Book Review written by Elaine Gallant