White River Red

by Becky Marietta

In 1906, fifteen-year-old Forrestina Bradley runs away from her stifling life of ease and joins the circus as a tightrope walker. After a tragedy forces her to leave the circus, she embarks on a life of nomadic adventure, running a carnival rat-game and becoming involved in an illegal dance hall and moonshine business near the banks of the White River in Arkansas during Prohibition. Along the way, she meets and loves three men--Max, Jack, and George--who each break her heart in vastly different ways. It's a good thing that Forrestina is tough enough to survive the men in her life. Tough enough to become a legend. In 1972, Betty, a young reporter desperate to break into the boys' club of journalism, offers to interview the now-elderly Forrestina. What she discovers in Forrestina's story is a lesson of strength, resilience, friendship, and faith. She learns that though defying normal is often painful, for some brave souls it's the only way to truly live. Inspired by a true story, White River Red: A Novel vividly portrays the tumults and triumphs of a rough, generous soul who touched countless lives with her kindness and courage.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Book Club

278 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 5, 2021

Reviews

[Molly Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh. My. Word. I am wiping the tears off my face as I write this review, because I have been sobbing over having to say good-bye to a character I love so very much. Red felt very real, like she was about to hop off the page and onto my front porch for a glass of lemonade and a long chat. She is everything I want in a main character, flawed and yet inspiring, a woman who endured so many hardships and heartbreaks and came out the other side toughened and not completely whole, yet still kind, loving, and generous in her own way (even if she would slap anyone who called her those things). I am a very character-driven reader, so I was pleased to find that Red was not the only vivid character in this book; each character started to come to life from their first descriptions, and I loved many of them and HATED a few. Yet even the characters I wanted to punch were spun with a thread of compassion and the understanding that humans are nuanced and never all good or all bad. (Although Rocket George, who has my whole heart, is an exception to this human nuance rule, as I refuse to believe he has even an ounce of bad in him.)
The pacing of this book was also really good, which I think is sometimes difficult in stories that span an entire lifetime. The little breaks that gave Betty's side of things and glimpses of the older Red made me excited to see what Betty would find out about Red's story next. The descriptions were also lovely and lyrical, which is always a bonus--I could picture the crystals glittering in Forrestina's red hair, feel the snuffle of a horse's lips on my hands, and smell honeysuckle on the breeze. I just loved this book so much, and I am going to have to read it again soon because I devoured it way too quickly and now I am going to have a terrible book hangover.

Favorite quote: "It's a pure mystery of life to find out that those whose hearts you think are the hardest wind up being the kindest."

[Austin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible. Densely packed with great images, my favorite being the “onion-skin pages” of a Bible. I’m not normally a fan of framework narratives, but I loved the back and forth from past to the novel’s present. There’s an occasional time jump that makes me wish we could live every year Red did, but the syuzhet works well and in the novel’s favor.

While the novel’s first two-thirds are great, I loved settling down with Red. What a ‘character.’ While certain parts were created for the book, the overall essence of the real person feels honoring and true.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

When 15 year old Forrestina Bradley runs away from her Missouri home in 1906, she dreams of becoming a circus aerialist. She joins up with the Ringling Brothers and soon begins training on the tightrope. Forrestina loves her circus life and the freedom it offers her. However, after a bad fall and a worse marriage, Forrestina finds her way into the carnival world where she runs a rat game. Now known after her fiery hair color, Red settles on the banks of the White River in Arkansas with a new husband, a dance hall and a moonshine operation. After another bad divorce, Red settles in town becoming a local legend providing entertainment for kids and families.

As soon as Forrestina's character burst onto the page, I knew her story would be entertaining. Forrestina's story is told through her point of view as an older woman with a newspaper reporter, Betty gathering her stories in 1972. From her perspective as an older woman, Red had the opportunity to reflect on her whole life and choices, the good and the bad. Red's exuberance, love of life and precocious nature shone through from the very beginning and was evident throughout her life's story, even when things weren't going well. Red's story is a lesson in being a good person, following your heart and living the life you choose. I was pleased to learn that White River Red was a real person and while her story was fictionalized, her larger than life personality and contributions were all real.

This book was received for free in return for an honest review.

[Miriam Simut]

DNFing at 23%. There’s nothing wrong with this book but I’m not feeling connected to the story, I’m not engaged and the characters don’t really interest me.

[Lori Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t want it to be over. I am sitting here crying. I enjoyed every minute of White River Red’s story. If you are from Arkansas, please read this book. It is an Arkansas author and mostly set in Arkansas. I truly wasn’t expecting to be drawn in as much as I was. This book makes you realize we all have a story. Our life is a story and along the way we reach different people and make impacts we may not even know. Or at least, we hope we do. This story is based on a real person.

In 1906, 15 year old Forrestina Bradley runs away from home and joins the circus. (I loved her circus days!) After tragedy forced her to leave the Big Top, she embarks on a path of nomadic adventure running a carnival rat-game and becoming involved in a moonshine business near the banks of the White River in Arkansas. Along the way, she meets and loves three men, who all break her heart in different ways. (I definitely related to her and her bad choices in this department). It’s a good thing Forrestina is tough enough to survive the men in her life. Tough enough to become a legend.

[Mikayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 STAR

I got heavy “Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo” vibes on a less glamorous scale, but equally adventurous. I’d say the first 60% was magical, but it lost that sparkle little by little as the story progressed. The story took on a much heavier theme, but I wouldn’t say that’s what diminished the atmospheric impact. There was a change of focus around that 60% mark, and I found that focus to be much less gripping of my attention as I neared the end.

[Karan Rogers · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book! We should all be blessed to have a White River Red in our lives.

[Ruth Stevens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Can’t-put-down historical fiction

White River Red is the compelling story of a fiercely independent and unconventional young woman who grew up in Arkansas in the early 1900s. If you think circus performers and carnies are shady characters with little moral fiber, think again. Forrestina “White River Red” Campbell was a real person who lived an extraordinary life, facing danger and sometimes enduring violence and betrayal without ever becoming broken or bitter. She rewarded good people in need with kindness and generosity, while facing evil with unwavering courage and sass. Hats off to debut novelist Becky Marietta for this fascinating, skillfully written, can’t-put-down story.

[Sandra Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Definitely a very “good read! A young girl before her time! She runs away from an affluent lifestyle and leads a life of interesting choices. I was sad for it to finish.

[Shanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible book about a truly fascinating life.

I was swept away by the story. Forrestina was an unforgettable character who truly came alive in every scene. The writing was sharp and witty, and I loved the peek behind the curtain into circus/carnival life.

It's a very difficult task to write a fictionalized account of a true life, especially when not much information is available. As a writer, I started and abandoned such a project, so I have much respect for Marietta for writing this book. She took what she had and filled in the blanks beautifully. I think Red would approve.

[Mandy Mooneyham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book surprised me! I only picked it up for my book club and would not have opened it on my own. That would have been a mistake, as it turned out to be one of my favorite books of all time! It was very well written, with high-quality sentence structuring and variation. The character development was top notch. It is an easy book to stay immersed in without unbelievable plot twists that pull a reader out of the story.

[Jessica Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story about a young girl joining the circus and how it changed her life. It was an emotional read with Red overcoming many obstacles in her life.

[Shannon Clayberg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was right up my alley. I really like historical fiction and this was a fun and interesting read all the way through. The author goes back and forth between different time frames seamlessly while giving the reader a vibrant picture of the action going on in every scene. I can’t wait for the movie of this one!

[Amanda Himes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heart-warming account of an actual Arkansas woman, Forrestina's escapades are entertaining to read about, but underneath the drama is a solid bedrock of faith and the significance of community to even--or especially--outliers.

I am looking forward to Becky Marietta's next publication!

[Sharon Elletson · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

"White River Red" tells the story of Forrestina Campbell, a folklore legend in the Ozarks who, at the age of 15 in 1906, ran away to join the circus as a trapeze artist. I was initially drawn to this book for its promise of a rich and gritty portrayal of circus life and the roaring age of early 20th-century America. Forrestina's real-life adventures seemed like they would offer a fascinating glimpse into a unique and colorful past.

While the book does present a good story and interesting characters, it is a fictionalized, somewhat folksy version of a life that fits an Ozark heroine rather than a detailed, factual account of a real woman. The novel glosses over some of the grittier aspects of Forrestina's experiences, like the real-life murder of her husband, Jack, by Theo, nor does it mention the fire that killed her beloved pet monkey. Instead, Becky Marietta presents a happier and somewhat sanitized version of events suitable for almost any reader.

Despite this, I did enjoy this novel. I appreciated the imaginative portrayal of Forrestina's life and the vibrant characters she interacted with. I just wanted more of the real woman behind the legend—who traded a circus life for a peddler's existence and lived on the White River.

Overall, "White River Red" is a good read for those who enjoy a blend of folklore and fiction, but it may leave history buffs and those seeking a more authentic account wanting more.

[Sheryl · Rating 3 out of 5]

White River Red is historical fiction based on the life of Forestina Campbell, a local personality in the Ozark region. In 1906 she runs away at 15 to join the circus, and we follow her through her life. The story is told to us through a series of interviews when we meet Forestina in a nursing home toward the end of her life.

I'm sure when you’re writing a novel about a local heroine you feel an obligation to honor them, especially if they’ve been largely forgotten. You want their story to be comforting and uplifting. And that’s what the author delivers: a cozy and nostalgic story. On the flip side, there's not a lot at stake for the characters. Even when something life threatening happens, you know it's only going to take a couple of pages to resolve it, and that there won't really be any long-term emotional repercussions.

The pacing of the novel is very good, and that’s no small feat when you’re covering a lifetime in 300 pages. The research was thorough and accurate. As with most first novels, it had a few problems with characterization and dialogue, but no more so than Fannie Flag had with the well-loved Fried Green Tomatoes (which was not her first book).
(I received an eARC in exchange for my review.)

[Donna Siebold · Rating 3 out of 5]

Based on a true story this is a sweet memoir of a woman known as White River Red. Red rain away from her affluent family as a teen. She joined the circus and became an aerialist. After a devastating injury she finds herself abandoned by her ne'er do well husband and her beloved circus. After years of wandering she finds herself settling in one location.

The story is told from the perspective of a young woman who in interviewing her for a profile for her local paper. At this point Red is a curmudgeon living in a nursing home. The reporter begins to realize that the stories of Red's irascibility are a bit over done.

The two become close and Red's story develops. Her life was quite interesting and it is sad to think how often someone ends up old and alone. Throughout the book we hear stories of how Red helped other people - and sometimes how they helped her - but over time she has lost touch with most of those people.

At the end of the book Red does die but her memory is honored by many of those we met in the pages of the book.

This isn't the best book I have ever read structurally but it is a pleasant story and Red seems like she would have been a very interesting person to know.

[Colin McGee · Rating 1 out of 5]

I received a review copy of this e-book, via the monthly giveaways on Goodreads.

I was looking forward to reading it. The blurb looked interesting. However, after getting 20% of the way through it, I will not be going any further.

The narrator runs away from home as a teen. There is no mention of any attempt on the part of her parents to find her or to persuade her to return. No calling of the police, or any other means of having her returned home. She decides to join the circus, and within minutes of simply arriving at the circus she is employed. Within days she is taken on as an apprentice acrobat. Somehow she is able to simply decide that she wants to be a tight-rope walker, and then, miraculously, she can do it. It all strains credulity.

I gather it's based on a true story. However, the constant stream of good fortune that lands in the heroine's lap strains belief, and the manner in which it is written would, I think, be better suited to a YA novel.

[Catherine Zebrowski · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of White River Red by Becky Marietta

White River Red is one of the most entertaining books I have read in a long time. Beginning in 1906, it follows the life of the somewhat eccentric and spirited main character, Forrestina Campbell- age 14, who leaves the comfort of her well-off southern home, and joins the circus to follow her passion for tight rope walking. Over the next several decades, through disappointments, sorrow, and sometimes laugh –out- loud adventures, we see her survive and embrace the circus life, the carnie life and still more adventures ensue as she reluctantly settles down by the White River. The novel, loosely based on a story handed down in the Ozarks, has historical details that add to the atmosphere of the story without distracting from it. What makes the story so appealing is the strong main character who overcomes what she must with grace, determination and laugh-out-loud southern humor.

[Christie · Rating 5 out of 5]

"But that was Red- She never saved for her own rainy day tomorrow if she could help someone with their showers today."
White River Red is an unforgettable, vividly written story about a human being that was a complete wildflower in every sense of the word, while also possessing enormous heart. Based on the true story of Forrestina Campbell AKA "Red," White River Red tells the tale of a legendary woman. Marietta brilliantly takes the reader into the inside world of the circus and carnivals and through the life of an incredibly resilient, tough and deeply loving woman whose life wasn't easy by any means but was undeniably lived. This is the story of a woman who often made lemonade out of lemons. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a true, raw, and brilliantly crafted story of a life lived on ones own terms and passions.

[Dolores · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a moving story! Based on a real person who ended up in Northwest Arkansas. Forrestina was a person with a heart for adventure. She left home and joined the circus and her life was not dull. This story follows Forrestina as she experiences the highs and lows of her life. It speaks to her conviction to follow the path she had set for herself although some tried to lead her astray. It was not what would be called a pretty life. In fact it was rather harsh. In spite of this Forrestina was a very giving person. This book was a page turner and is hard to put down once you get drawn into the story. It is a very descriptive work and I could see the action take place in my head as I read the story. Thank you, Becky, for bringing this person's story to life!

[R J Mckay · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is so much heart in this story.

The story of Forrestina “Red” Bradley is truly memorable. This story swept me away. I laughed, I cried, and I longed to have the privilege of meeting someone just like Forrestina Bradley. I thoroughly enjoyed the way this story was presented, as a female reporter interviews Red, and the reader learns her tale. Forrestina was a 15-year-old runaway who literally ran off to join the circus. Her fascination with the high wire acts soon had her soaring high above the heads of her audience. She was fearless. She was bold. And she was unstoppable. She didn’t care about convention. But she had the biggest heart. Her life was far from easy, but she never wavered in her drive. That this story was based on a real-life person is remarkable. She is an inspiration

[Alexandra Consolver · Rating 3 out of 5]

CW/TW - sexual assault, fat phobia

3 stars - this was such a fun idea for a book. I liked Forrestina and her quirky background in the circus, carnival, and as a bar owner. I also loved all of the details added to her character, and those around her. It almost felt whimsical, but not quite. The story was interesting and sad, but didn’t deviate much from what I had expected to happen.

I wish there had been significantly less talk about body image. There were a lot of instances of describing characters in terms of their unappealing (to put it mildly) fat bodies, and metabolism, etc. considering most of it was not related to things like her career as an acrobat or anyone’s health, it felt unnecessary and mean. One of the instances was so uncomfortable it really took me out of the story.

[Rebekah · Rating 5 out of 5]

You'll love, you'll laugh, and you'll cry! Everything you want in a book is right here! Forrestina Campbell is someone you will wish you had known! In Becky Marrietta's debut novel, her words dance across the page and paint a perfect picture into the life of "Red"! It's the perfect book about overcoming adversity, looking out for others and really engaging in the world around you! Perfect beach/summer read,, you won't want to put it down! Looking forward to more books from this talented author!!

[Joy Rizza · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tale that sticks with you. Seeing the early 20th century through one person's eyes. The ways that a woman could safely move through the world and how few rights she might have. The main character is a fascinating person, willing to do anything to escape the future her family has planned for her. The writing is tight and will done. The story flows and keeps you interested and invested through the end.

[Debra · Rating 4 out of 5]

Based on real characters, we follow the life of outspoken, feisty Forrestina Bradley. At 15 she runs away from home and joins the circus. A petite gal, with fire red hair, she is fearless and takes to walking the wire. The story follows her through career changes, romantic involvements and a life of care and compassion. From tights to overalls and a flannel shift, from genteel to a woman who can cuss like a sailor she shows empathy to the underdogs (be it animal or human). Very good.

[Bethany Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story of a girl who left home at the age of 15 and joined the circus. With grit she lives through trial and tribulations over and over. The story is told through a reporter doing an interest piece of the main character 66 years later. There was nothing overly exciting about Red's life, but I enjoyed it. I recommend it.

[Sherrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. The story of the life of a woman that became know as White River Red because of a her red hair. I became fascinated with her circus life and that continued through to the rest of her life. She was a good person and one to aspire to. I became much more interested to find out that she was a real person. I would recommend this story to anyone.

[Robna Wiles-Pfeifler · Rating 4 out of 5]

What an interesting woman. This book is based on facts with a lot of fiction thrown in. I wish I knew more about which things in the book were fact. Now I need to go to the Shiloh museum and see their exhibit about "Red" and see if I can locate Philip Steele's short biography about her.
Enjoyed it and a fast read.

[Heathermiller8 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read this and fall in love with a kind, strong, quirky, amazing lady who is local (Arkansas gal) and lovely. Forrestina is a force and you should get to know her but fair warning you are going to miss her when you turn that last page.