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Lively, historically rich romp through America’s daredevil era.

Roberts’s debut fictionalizes the story of flagpole sitter Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly, orphaned and rescued from the streets of New York’s Hell’s Kitchen by Captain Thomas Arnold Jacobi in the early 1900s. Grateful for the fresh start, Alvin works hard and earns the coveted title of Jacobi’s “trusted mate,” sailing with him on the Helene—where he meets and falls in love with Vivian Steele and survives, at just 16 years old, when the Helene is shipwrecked. After returning to New York City—following a stint on the R.M.S. Carpathia as one of the crew members tasked with retrieving the Titanic’s survivors—Alvin is befriended by Joseph Emmerling, a journalist eager to turn his story into a book.

Roberts contextualizes Alvin’s life against the early 20th century’s propensity for daredevil feats like plunging over Niagara Falls in a barrel or partaking in death-defying aviation stunts. Amidst these people and their eccentric obsessions, Alvin comes across as simple and straightforward, with a limitless desire to excel and be adored. Eventually, he turns to flagpole sitting, becoming a popular figure towering above the skyline, with Joseph serving as his manager. He also runs into Vivian once again, marrying her and raising a son together—though their relationship is often troubled by the enduring attachment between Alvin and Joseph.

To avoid narrative lulls during Alvin’s extended performances, Roberts uses historical language and vivid snapshots of this lost art: Alvin's many attempts to pass hours of time spent perched on a 36” by 36” lumber square; the weather conditions of “living in the sky”; the ebb and swell of the crowd’s adulation; Vivian’s petty crime attempts to rake in extra cash on the ground. As the Machine Age takes hold and World War II approaches, Alvin teeters toward oblivion, along with several of his colleagues, heralding the end of a glittering, madcap era in America’s history. — BookLife

A bittersweet indie gem about love, loss, and the absurd beauty of starting over. — tertulia.com

The life and times of America’s greatest flagpole sitter comes to vivid and loquacious life in The Luckiest Fool on Earth by Phillip S. Roberts.

In this effervescent and endearing novel, the endurance adventures of a sailor named Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly throughout the first half of the twentieth century shed light on a peculiar period in American history—the age of “unrestrained diversion” that catapulted fame-seekers to new heights, quite literally. It is the story of Alvin, but also co-equally about his promotional manager, Joseph Emmerling, a journalist and wire service proprietor always on the make for the next big byline. Creating the third hypotenuse of this unusual triangle is Vivian, Alvin’s wife, a con woman with her own motives for tying her star to a man named “Shipwreck.”

When Emmerling sets his gaze on Alvin, a sailor who pulled Titanic survivors aboard the RMS Carpathia, he sees the perfect man to create the sensational headlines he plans to write (and profit from). Thus begins the long and eventful partnership between promoter and endurance competitor, and Roberts’s tale takes readers on a whirligig tour of America’s “barnstorming” days of daredevils, stunt men and women, aviation firsts, and yes, flagpole sitting competitions. Of which, of course, Alvin becomes the best, eventually setting a world record of 49 days atop his perch, where “peace and quiet is his hermitage—alone in the hinterlands, dueling the savage, untamed universe.” [125]

Written in a present tense style that evokes an urgent, ticker-tape news report, the story is a delightful and lighthearted gambol across the nation, following the ups and downs (pun intended) of Alvin, his fiery spouse, Vivian, and the grandiloquent promoter who may or may not be taking advantage of his liege man for financial gain. Along the way, Roberts seasons the story with a veritable who’s who of the era, which ranges from the pre-World War I, the Jazz Age, the Depression Era, World War II, and beyond.

Roberts’s prose is magnetic, humorous, and skillfully attuned to the huckster-ish lexicon of the times. Indeed, readers would be well-served to keep a dictionary handy as they reference the countless arcane five-dollar words that Joseph employs at every turn. Roberts moves through the decades of Alvin’s chaotic life at an energetic trot, but Alvin himself remains a cipher of sorts. Internal thoughts are rendered in italic and do not delve far below the surface of Alvin’s immediate reactions to money problems, Vivian’s antics, or the quest to be the best. It makes for a jolly fast read, but not a two-dimensional one if readers want to understand who Alvin really is (or, for that matter, Vivian). 

The Luckiest Fool on Earth is an amusing, clever, and well-researched novel about the quest for fame and money in the heyday of American diversionary competitions. — History Through Fiction review by Peggy Kurkowski.

Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly, an American daredevil who had worked in many professions, including sailor, boxer, stuntman, and pole-sitter, is a unique character from the 1920s and early 30s. The author, Phillip Roberts, brings Kelly to life in The Luckiest Fool on Earth, a beautifully written historical fiction novel that incorporates numerous real-life events of Shipwreck’s life, as well as the unique challenges and triumphs he faced during an extreme life filled with both thrill-seeking stunts and an immense amount of public success.

Shipwreck Kelly held the world record for pole sitting over the Atlantic City boardwalk for 49 days, and many would consider him to be a “lucky” fool. However, Roberts incorporates into his book the struggles that came along with this fame. Through his use of humor, Roberts is able to develop an interesting and entertaining portrait of an incredibly ambitious personality who was also a vulnerable individual living on the edge.

Fans of historical fiction will find much to enjoy through the use of atmosphere and character development. Additionally, fans of quirky Americana will appreciate the vintage look of Kelly’s life and the experiences that occurred during this time frame. The Luckiest Fool on Earth presents a comprehensive historical portrait of an extraordinary and unique character who chased the sky while the ground crumbled below him. 

This book is original, incredibly entertaining, and has a surprisingly powerful message. It is heartwarming and inspiring. — Jeyran Main - Review Tales  

Orphaned Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly's story begins in the early 1900s, as he sails on the Helene under Captain Jacobi and survives a calamitous shipwreck. His adventures are colorful and inspiring, following him as he helps rescue Titanic victims, meets a host of vibrant characters, and eventually finds fame (though not much fortune) as a flagpole sitter, with journalist Joseph Emmerling serving as his manager. Alvin's legacy—and eventual fall from grace—is memorable. Through universal themes like the danger of fame and ambition—not to mention choices and redemption—the story brings life to historical context while offering readers deeper meaning. Many of the characters remain static throughout their respective parts of Alvin's greater narrative, but his evocative life experiences resonate—particularly his evolution from glory-seeker to survivor as America's era of daredevil feats comes to a close. — Critic's report, The Booklife Prize.

A fascinating journey into an unusual piece of history.

The Luckiest Fool on Earth by Philip S. Roberts is a fascinating and entertaining read that caught my attention with its unusual subject and larger-than-life premise. The story of Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly, presented as America’s greatest flagpole sitter, offers a memorable glimpse into a remarkable piece of history that many readers may never have encountered before.

What I enjoyed most was the sense of curiosity the book creates. It takes an extraordinary individual and turns his unusual claim to fame into something worth exploring. There is humor, eccentricity, and a feeling of adventure woven into the story, making it an easy book to pick up when you want something different from the usual historical biography.

The title itself is intriguing, and the book delivers on that curiosity by presenting a character whose life and accomplishments are certainly far from ordinary. Alvin Kelly’s story is the kind of tale that makes you stop and wonder how someone could dedicate himself to such an unusual pursuit, and what motivated him to keep going.

Philip S. Roberts does a good job of bringing attention to an overlooked figure and an entertaining chapter of American history. I especially appreciated the way the subject invites readers to think about fame, determination, spectacle, and the lengths people will go to become memorable.

Overall, The Luckiest Fool on Earth is an enjoyable and unusual read that I would recommend to anyone interested in quirky historical figures, forgotten stories, or fascinating human-interest tales. It is refreshing to discover a book that explores a subject outside the ordinary and reminds us that history is filled with people whose lives are stranger and more interesting than we might expect. — Tamara G. (5-Star Amazon Review)

Another historical fiction read by an Arizona author is The Luckiest Fool on Earth by Phillip S. Roberts. Based on the true story of Alvin "Shipwreck" Kelly, Roberts’ debut novel shares the tangled tale of Kelly, the flagpole-sitting champion of the world, and all of the characters who both helped him stay balanced and those who would like to see him fall. Filled with hope and reflection, this story set against the backdrop of the Roaring 20s is perfect for fans of historical fiction, ready for a new book. — Kyra O’Connor News 12 Phoenix

A Memorable Story About Luck, Life, and Happiness.

The Luckiest Fool on Earth by Phillip S. Roberts is an entertaining and thought-provoking read that explores life, choices, and the unexpected twists that can shape a person’s journey. The story offers plenty to reflect on while maintaining an engaging narrative that keeps the pages turning. I enjoyed the blend of humor, emotion, and life lessons throughout the book. It’s a memorable story that encourages readers to look beyond appearances and consider what true luck and happiness really mean. — Linda B. (5-Star Amazon Review)

Terrific cover art for the book. It looked like Norman Rockwell's work. I had never heard of this person, but I'm glad I read this book. What a character. I would recommend The Luckiest Fool on Earth for people who like historical fiction, as well as those who like biographies — Laurel Z.

The Luckiest Fool on Earth “ is the high-octane, voluble, true-ish telling of the story of Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly. Although the book chronicles Kelly's gentle and dogged rise to fame for doing very little and then his fall to obsolescence , really this is as much about all of the stories surrounding Alvin: crazed, vicious and vivacious, mendacious, dangerous, frenetic stories of a starry roster of actors, stuntmen, aviators, scammers and Bon Vivants all pushing boundaries to the absolute limit: young stars of the early century feeding the public’s insatiable appetite for curiosities, horror, death, danger and razzmatazz. The telling of this Jazz Age America is done using the language and hyperbole of the carnival Barker. Thank you for the opportunity to read this quirky book. — Sophie A.

The Luckiest Fool on Earth "was everything that I was hoping for and enjoyed from the cover and description, it had that element that I was wanting and enjoyed how it was used in this setting. The characters were everything that I was looking for and enjoyed in this overall. Phillip Roberts wrote this so well and was glad I was able to read this." — Kathryn M.

Fearless and Foolish : The Flagpole Champion Who Achieved the Unthinkable

This book is a fantastic reimagining of Alvin "Shipwreck" Kelly’s life. Watching him rise from an orphaned street kid to a seaman, and eventually to a full-blown Jazz Age celebrity, is a wild ride. The stunts he pulled off were completely foolish, yet he somehow managed to accomplish the unthinkable by staying high above the ground for weeks at a time. His high-altitude flagpole perches gripped a nation hooked on radio and newsreels, but what really stuck with me was the underlying question: what do you do when the spotlight finally goes out?

I loved the chapter headers featuring different nautical knots—their purpose felt twofold, matching the subject matter of his stunt rigging while serving as a subtle, constant reminder of how far he’d come after almost perishing at sea. The quotes at the beginning of each chapter were also a great added touch that enhanced the tone of the book. If you enjoy deep historical detail and character-driven stories about forgotten real-life icons, this is an easy 5/5. — Edith M.

This was a good read! For fans of historical fiction that is inspired by real life the tale of Alvin "Shipwreck" Kelly is unique and this book retells that story in a very entertaining way. — Ricky L.

Once ensconced in the era, I spent a long Saturday finishing the second half of the story. Couldn't put it down. — Keith F. (5-Star Amazon Review)

Loved it! I was totally engrossed in this awesome read for a solid week. Really well written and thoroughly enjoyed it from beginning to end. Highly recommend. — Geoffrey B. (5-Star Amazon Review.)

Wonderful historical fiction book that takes place during the 1930s. Lots of fun and interesting moments in history wrapped up in a love story. It's the precursor to going viral. — Amazon Customer (5-Star Amazon Review.)

A daring life worth remembering.

From the very first chapters, this book pulls me into the thrilling world of Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly, where circus performers, daring stunts, towering flagpoles and unforgettable historical moments all come together. I found the stories about Emperor Norton, the Titanic era, vaudeville entertainers and the rise of America’s daredevils especially fascinating because they make history feel exciting and full of life. The adventure, humor, friendships and constant twists keep the pages engaging while showing how an ordinary boy grows into an extraordinary legend. Beneath the spectacle is a meaningful reminder that resilience, courage, and the choices we make often shape our destiny far more than luck alone. — Nastassia W. (5-Star Amazon Review)

I must say that I read a lot, and I'm a minor Proust scholar, so my standards are fairly high, and I loved this book! — P. Segal. 

Such a Wild Ride!

The book tells the true story of Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly, a daring stuntman who became famous in the 1920s for sitting on tiny platforms high above the ground for weeks at a time. It shows how he faced crazy weather, angry crowds, health scares, and constant danger while turning flagpole sitting into a national craze and earning big money. The story highlights his wild adventures, clever publicity stunts, and how his strange career made him both a celebrity and a bit of a legend in American history. — Elizabeth K (5-Star Amazon Review)

I was given this book as a Christmas present. I enjoyed it very much, it was fun and entertaining. I personally had never heard of Shipwreck Kelly but what a life! It’s a must read. — Cheri (5-Star Amazon Review)

Came for the setting , stayed for the plot.

I've not read many books set in the roaring twenties, and Phillip Roberts brought the time to life like few others can. He opens with the circus in all its bizarre awe, quickly setting the pace for the novel: the pomp and pageantry of the circus, but with its dark underbelly. And the story that hooked me with its unusual setting quickly kept me with its touching character-driven plot. — Charles M.

What a great read! —  Robert A. (5-Star Amazon Review)

Good read. Very good depicting the barn storming days. A fun look into the life of a flag pole sitter. — Brenda (5-Star Amazon Review.)

Great book, was fun reading! Highly recommend!! — Scaryseamonster (5-Star Amazon Review)

Wonderful story of early 1900’s big city days. Charming read with constant references of real past days and events. (The characters are woven beautifully in with historic people and places . ) I found the language the author used for that era fascinating and demanded some personal research of my own to really appreciate the time and place created . Also to note , describing the demanding human physical efforts of those past generations keep the reader in constant awe. — Ken K. (5-Star Amazon Review)

The Luckiest Fool on Earth is a wildly entertaining and deeply human tale of ambition, deception, and spectacle, chronicling the rise of Alvin "Shipwreck" Kelly as America’s most unlikely hero in a dazzling, heartbreaking journey through the Roaring Twenties that proves fame can elevate—and unravel—you. — newinbooks.com

A Fascinating Tale.

The Luckiest Fool on Earth is a fascinating historical novel filled with ambition, deception, and unexpected twists. Alvin Kelly’s journey from an ordinary sailor to a famous flagpole sitter gives the story a unique and entertaining premise. I especially enjoyed the mix of real historical figures and the colorful atmosphere of 1920s New York. Beneath the spectacle, the story also explores deeper themes about fame, greed, relationships, and the price of chasing recognition. Alvin’s struggle makes the book feel more meaningful than a simple adventure story. — Andre 39 (5-Star Amazon Review)

23 Skidoo.

A wild romp through one of the wildest times in USA history. The characters are well researched as is the era. A masterpiece. I recommend it (The Luckiest Follow Earth) as a palate cleanser between more serious reads. — Ben R. (5-Star Amazon Review)

The Luckiest Fool on Earth offers an engaging glimpse into the life of Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly and the odd, almost unbelievable practice of flagpole sitting. The book stands out for its lively storytelling, especially when describing Kelly’s bold feats, from his eye-catching bicycle tricks to the energetic, circus-filled world of the late 1800s. It paints a clear picture of his persistence and flair for performance, making it an enjoyable read for anyone interested in unusual true stories, overlooked historical personalities, and the more eccentric corners of American history. —  Ronnie L. (5-Star Amazon Review)

Great Read!!

The Luckiest Fool on Earth is a captivating historical novel that brings the colorful world of 1920s New York to life. Alvin “Shipwreck” Kelly’s unusual rise to fame makes for an entertaining and thought-provoking journey, while the characters around him add plenty of intrigue and deception. Phillip S. Roberts skillfully explores ambition, fame, manipulation, and redemption in this memorable story.  —  Trevor B. (5-Star Amazon Review)