5 Star Review
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Editorial Book Review:
By Celeste Hann
The compelling historical fiction work Hobbadehoy Rising by Max Willi Fischer immerses readers in the harsh realities of New York in the 1850s. I was immediately drawn to the author's ability to mix the emotional depth of the protagonist's journey with the realities of life at this difficult period. The narrative is on a young orphan who must make his way through the world without the support of family, relying on fortitude and tenacity to live in a city full with peril and tragedy.
Fischer’s writing is immersive and evocative, bringing the historical setting to life in a way that feels both authentic and deeply human. The main character's struggles, like living on the streets and trying to trust others, were shown with such raw emotion that I could relate to his whole trip. The book doesn't hide the hard times of the time; instead, it shows how strong people were as they tried to make a life for themselves in a world that didn't seem to care about their pain.
What I like most about the book was its examination of not only survival but also personal growth, empathy, and mentoring. As he begins to connect with people, particularly an older mentor, the protagonist's journey from merely trying to survive to learning the importance of human connection was both sad and powerful. For me, these poignant scenes were among the story's most powerful elements since they provided hope despite the difficulties.
The historical context of Hobbadehoy Rising adds richness to the protagonist’s personal journey. The struggles of orphans, immigrants, and the working class in 19th-century New York are brought to the forefront, providing a backdrop that makes the emotional and physical battles even more poignant. What sets this book apart is Fischer's ability to combine the brutality of the historical period with periods of profound human transformation, demonstrating that even in the most difficult times, there is potential for growth and connection.
Overall, Hobbadehoy Rising is an emotionally charged and compelling novel. It stands out among historical fiction because of Fischer's skill at telling a story that is both tragic and inspirational. Indeed, it is a tale of survival, but more significantly, it illustrates how interpersonal relationships may enable us to overcome even the most trying situations.
About the Author
Max Willi Fischer
Max Willi Fischer’s upbringing in a bilingual household with German immigrant parents may have played a role in shaping his deep interest in history. His father, who followed family members to America in search of work, exemplified hard work and dedication, holding two jobs to provide for the family and ensure that David and his brother could receive a good education. David credits his father as the most respected man he has ever known and his ultimate role model.
For nearly four decades, David was a dedicated classroom teacher, working with elementary and middle school students. He taught a range of subjects in fifth and sixth grades and focused on world history and American history for seventh and eighth graders.
After retiring, David turned his passion for history into writing, aiming to engage young adults in the rich heritage of the United States. His first historical fiction book, The Corkscrew App, was published in 2016. He followed it with American Brush-Off, which debuted in 2020 on Amazon and Kindle Select.
Now that their daughters are grown, David and his wife enjoy spending their time on home projects, traveling, and watching great movies.
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