The Astonishing Life of August March

A Novel

De: Aaron Jackson

Narrado por: Joel Froomkin

In this enchanting first novel, an irrepressibly optimistic oddball orphan is thrust into the wilds of postwar New York City after an extraordinary childhood in a theater—Candide by way of John Irving, with a hint of Charles Dickens

Abandoned as an infant by his actress mother in her theater dressing room, August March was raised by an ancient laundress. Highly intelligent, a tad feral, August is a true child of the theater –able to recite Shakespeare before he knew the alphabet.

But like all productions, August’s wondrous time inside the theater comes to a close, and he finds himself in the wilds of postwar New York City, where he quickly rises from pickpocket street urchin to star student at the stuffiest boarding school in the nation.

To survive, August must rely upon the kindness of strangers, only some of whom have his best interests at heart. As he grows up, his heart begins to yearn for love—which he may or may not finally find in Penny, a clever and gifted con artist.

Aaron Jackson has crafted a brilliant, enchanting story at once profound and delightfully entertaining. Like The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, The World According to Garp, and Be Frank with Me, this razor-sharp debut—a classic tale of a young innocent who finally finds his way, reminds us that everyone can find love. Even August March.

What a great book!

You will enjoy this immensely! The narrator is works as if he wrote the words himself.

Fairly predictable. An OK book.

The dialog and story didn't seem to match the time period. Reads like a 19th century tale, but is set in middle of 20th. would have done better to not even mention a year

a delightful listen through and through

the story is unique and fascinating. the way it is told and the language used is fun and as unique as the story and titular character August March. the narrator delivered it perfectly. this is an excellent book to read and/or listen to!

Delightful and silly with some heart

This is pure fun! The specific details of the world and characters are so clear and nuanced, you’ll love the imagery and laugh at the weird specifics. Along with smiling and laughing while listening, there were a couple of moments I caught myself audibly “Aaaawww” in empathy, which is a good sign for me. If you want to forget everything right now, this is a delightful and adventurous escape.

Engaging and well-written

I was lost in this wonderful novel, and the actor reading was just fantastic. Aaron Jackson wrote a truly engaging masterpiece. Highly recommend!