“The Golden Age of Red” by Doug Villhard is a fun and interesting read! It begins with a scene in the Virginia Theater in Champaign, Illinois and most of the novel is set in Champaign or Chicago. The novel is historical fiction, detailing the life of Red Grange, the famous U of I football star. (But you don’t need to be a football fan to enjoy it!)
Red Grange was a three-time All-American at IL and led his team to a national championship in 1923. This novel tells so much more about the man – his love for his dad and brother, his dedication to teammates and his coach and his struggle with the fame that came along with his success. The descriptions of 1920’s college life and the realities of early football were so realistic and the novel was fast paced. I loved getting to know the personality of Red Grange, as well as the many other historical figures who played a key role in his life.
Sports fans and historical fiction lovers will enjoy “The Golden Age of Red.” ! But I think it is a great read, even if football isn’t ‘your thing.’ Red’s personal story was so incredible and I found it hard to put down! Check it out!
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