Book Description:
In the idyllic summer of 1896 in Portland, Maine, several people are embarking on adventures of a most audacious and entertaining nature. The lovely Cordelia Underwood unexpectedly inherits a large parcel of land, and discovers that it holds an irresistible secret; it is her newfound friend, Tobias Walton--a man of a certain age and Pickwickian characteristics--who will eventually help her to unravel the mystery. In parallel journeys up the coast of Maine, Cordelia collects a handsome suitor and several opinionated relatives, and Mister Walton is soon accompanied by an entourage of hapless friends--the honorable members of the Moosepath League. Together this motley group encounters a colorful variety of true Maine eccentrics--from old salts to bootleggers, grande dames to prospective beaus--and find themselves embroiled in some good old-fashioned wonderment and laughter that includes a boxing match between two aging politicians, an escaped circus bear named Maude, a dastardly kidnapping, and the parachutist Mrs. Roberto in her attractive suit of tights! Superbly written, with a vivid sense of place and period, this is a book for any day that begs a few hours of pure delight.My thoughts:
I first read Cordelia Underwood: Or the Marvelous Beginnings of the Moosepath League by Van Reid several years ago after reading a review posted by Carrie at Reading to Know
. I really enjoyed the book and continued reading the series. I decided that they were worth a re-read so I recently picked up Cordelia Underwood again.
I really think what I love about this story is the great character that are involved. Mr. Walton is a happy go lucky kind of guy who sets out on a journey and through many different circumstances eventually comes to help Cordelia Underwood and her family.
If Mr. Walton's travels and the interesting creatures that he comes in contact with (a smiling bear?) aren't exciting enough then enter the characters who become the Moosepath League. These three cause more mishaps than you can imagine and bring hilarity to the story. If you have ever read the Pickwick Papers you can truly enjoy the members of the Moosepath League.
Honestly, I don't think words can really describe what this story is like. The author does a great job of bringing in a host of different characters, which make for a delightful story. Even though a re-read Cordelia Underwood: Or the Marvelous Beginnings of the Moosepath League
did not disappoint.
This sounds delightful!
ReplyDeleteI've read that book too - and I loved it! I went and checked my library site and there is another book by Van Reid - it just went on my hold list. I'd forgotten how much I enjoyed his writing style.
ReplyDeleteI've read four book by Van Reid. I like Cordelia the best. I think he is the most Dickensian modern author alive.
ReplyDeleteOh, and I forgot to add that I read it right before visiting my brother in Maine. We visited several locations from the book. I just love saying 'Damariscotta'!
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