Mark Twain and the Happy Island by Elizabeth Wallace is a delightful and charming read that transports readers back to the time of the famous author himself. Set in the late 1800s, the story follows Mark Twain as he embarks on a journey to a mysterious island where people are said to live longer and happier lives.
The author does a fantastic job of capturing Mark Twain's wit and humor, making him a lovable and relatable character. The island itself is vividly described, with its lush landscapes and unique inhabitants adding a sense of magic and wonder to the story.
One of the highlights of the book is the friendship that develops between Mark Twain and the island's residents, as they learn valuable lessons from each other and form a bond that transcends time and place.
Overall, Mark Twain and the Happy Island is a heartwarming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of historical fiction and classic literature. Elizabeth Wallace has crafted a truly enchanting tale that will leave readers feeling uplifted and inspired.
Book Description:
This Mark Twain Memoir by Elizabeth Wallace paints an idyllic portrait of his time in Bermuda, not long before his death in 1910. Wallace and Twain met in Bermuda in 1908, became fast friends, and shared time together on the island and regular correspondence until 6 weeks before Twain's death. According to one academician, "Wallace’s deep affection for Twain is evident in her writings, so she also may have wished to burnish his legacy. As a result, Happy Island is a popular treatment in a breezy, occasionally sentimental style. It portrays Twain as a fun and caring friend but only hints at weightier matters." - Summary by John Greenman