“Circle Change”Gabriel Busch, the author, attempts to combine a love story and a deep tale of redemption and reflection. He connects on many levels, which is a good thing for the reader. The novel is set against the background of Major League Baseball dreams and aspirations. It has much to offer any reader.
Make no doubt about it, “Circle Change”This is a love tale. It is the story’s many allegories and hidden layers that set the novel apart. There are many levels where the theme of love is prominent. Fans can identify with baseball’s love and this is a key setting in the story. Love between a man or woman is an universal theme and it’s addressed. It is evident in how the characters interact with each other, and the city where they live that New Orleans has a love. The most important aspect of the novel is its exploration of the concept of self-love, through reflection, grievance, forgiveness, redemption, and reconciliation. Busch is able to accomplish this feat, which was no easy feat.
Traynor Hamilton is a minor league star pitcher for the Houston Astros. This story reveals his dream to fulfill his destiny and become a major-league pitcher. Originating from the Northeast of the United States, Hamilton works tirelessly for the New Orleans affiliated baseball team and develops a love for his hometown. Charles becomes Traynor’s mentor and an older wise man. He is a tireless advocate for sage principles and gives Traynor a sense of purpose. Traynor meets a gorgeous woman in an art gallery and recruits Charles as his friend to help him meet her. After becoming acquainted with Gracie they begin to fall in love. It’s the big leagues that he makes. The tragedy, like any good morality play sends the protagonist searching for answers, reflection, and redemption.
At its end, the novel is left with a lot of questions unanswered. Busch clearly intends this, challenging readers to find the answer to the following question: Can redemption be possible? While it may seem that one can be led by others to find the right answer, Busch tells us we must answer that question ourselves. Our journey is not alone, which is what makes it so reassuring. Our human companions can be friends, family, or random strangers. They share our griefs, pains, and loves.
It has high ideals and is a great read. Although there were many grammatical errors and mistakes in punctuation during digitization, these can be easily corrected. Busch is a great example of hard work. “A”His exploration of the different worlds that are baseball, love and joy as well as grief and loss, as well as the almost supernatural twist to his story about Native American culture, spirituality, and religion.
Conversation is the mainstay of the novel and it almost reads like a screenplay. Busch might have meant this, as it would be very easy to see the story on the screen. Busch, however, has established himself as an author of unique voices with many stories to tell. His first novel, his foray into storytelling, seems to be a sign that he’s on the right track.