Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead weaves together the stories of Marian Graves, a pioneering aviator attempting to fly over both Poles in the mid-20th century, and Hadley Baxter, an actor in the modern day exploring Marian’s life for a biographical film. Themes include abandonment, suicide, emotional abuse, and spousal abuse.

Maggie Shipstead’s Great Circle is widely praised for its ambitious scope and richly detailed narrative. Reviewers commend its intricate plotting and vivid character development, especially the portrayal of protagonist Marian. However, some find its length and pacing challenging. Overall, it's an engaging and immersive read with compelling historical depth.

Readers who enjoy expansive, multi-generational sagas like All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr or The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah will be captivated by Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead. Its blend of historical fiction, compelling characters, and rich, narrative depth appeals to those who appreciate intricately woven, atmospheric storytelling.

Adventurous / Emotional / Contemplative / Inspirational / Bittersweet

- Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead was shortlisted for the 2021 Booker Prize, an annual award for the best original novel written in the English language.
- The novel intertwines two timelines and follows the stories of a fictional female pilot and an actress portraying her in a biopic nearly a century later.
- Maggie Shipstead spent nearly a decade researching and writing Great Circle, diving into historical records and aviation archives to create an authentic backdrop for her narrative.

**Marian Graves**  
A pioneering female aviator who is central to one of the two narratives, striving to make a round-the-world flight across both poles. Her love for flying and independence are key aspects of her character.

**Hadley Baxter**  
A film star who is determined to portray Marian in a biopic and shares a similar background of being raised by an uncle after being orphaned. Her journey intertwines with Marian's as she seeks direction in her own life.

**Jamie Graves**  
Marian’s twin brother who becomes a celebrated artist known for his attempts to capture the essence of the natural world. His life is deeply affected by the war and his relationship with Marian.

**Barclay Macqueen**  
A wealthy criminal and businessman who becomes Marian’s benefactor and manipulates her into an unwanted relationship. His actions have a profound impact on Marian’s life and choices.

**Caleb Bitterroot**  
One of Marian's closest friends and intermittent romantic interests, known for his fierce independence. He shares a unique understanding and bond with Marian, keeping her New Zealand identity secret.

**Trout Marx**  
Marian’s first flying instructor who supports her aviation ambitions and becomes a significant influence in her life. He teaches Marian more than just flying, providing life lessons as well.

**Ruth**  
A pilot during the war who shares a tragically brief romantic relationship with Marian. Ruth’s confidence and brashness leave a lasting impression on Marian.

**Eddie**  
A gay man and Ruth’s close friend who accompanies Marian on her flight, driven by shared past tragedies. His struggle with societal acceptance influences his decisions throughout the story.

**Addison Graves**  
Marian and Jamie’s father, a former ship captain whose life unravels following personal and public tribulations. He becomes estranged from his children by his own choice.

**Redwood Feiffer**  
Lloyd Feiffer’s grandson and the producer of the film about Marian, who becomes an enigma and romantic interest to Hadley. His duality captivates and challenges Hadley throughout her quest.

**Alexei**  
Oliver's agent and Hadley’s love interest, a married man who remains emotionally distant. His inaccessibility makes him an alluring but ephemeral figure in Hadley’s life.

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