Circus: An Album

by Linda Granfield

Chronicles the evolution of the circus, from its early days of medieval street performers to the theatrical organizations of today, and features a look at the daily life and training of the performers and daredevils who thrill crowds around the world.

96 pages, Hardcover

First published June 1, 2000

Reviews

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

Along with the expected history recollection of the circus humble beginnings and biography of the Father of the Modern Circus, Philip Astley, the book also covers topics unfamiliar in well-accepted circus lore. Circus or lot lingo is discussed in a section of how the circus tents are constantly assembled and torn down in a feverish pace. It is suggested that the phrase “Like a circus” in here may not just refer to the wild spectacle running around the three rings during show time, but may instead refer to the organized chaos of the roustabouts and canvas men raising the circus tent.

The fifth chapter “Ladies and Gentlemen” is the longest and has the most information in it. Here readers learn all about the different acts in the circus from the windjammers (the circus band) to the clowns. Each article is highlighted by several biographies of famous circus performers. Along with reading about the Flying Wallendas, readers also learn about the life of trapeze performer Jules Leotard (1842-1870), who is not only credited with his tight-fitting costume, but was also the inspiration for the song “The Daring Young Man on the Flying Trapeze.”

Read my full review at my Blog, the Non Fiction Manifesto: http://non-fic-manifesto.blogspot.com...

[Allison Greg · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has plenty of great information on the history of the circus. It also has tons of great illustrations and pictures. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who wants an entertaining and easy to read history of the circus.

[Miguel Mezquitic · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think is an excellent overview of circus history and life. Deftly handles the controversies around animal rights and side-shows. Along with the expected history recollection of the circus humble beginnings and biography of the Father of the Modern Circus, Philip Astley, the book also covers topics unfamiliar in well-accepted circus lore. Circus or lot lingo is discussed in a section of how the circus tents are constantly assembled and torn down in a feverish pace. It is suggested that the phrase “Like a circus” in here may not just refer to the wild spectacle running around the three rings during show time, but may instead refer to the organized chaos of the roustabouts and canvas men raising the circus tent. The fifth chapter “Ladies and Gentlemen” is the longest and has the most information in it. Here readers learn all about the different acts in the circus from the windjammers (the circus band) to the clowns. Each article is highlighted by several biographies of famous circus performers. I hope
you like this awesome book.

[Kate Ressman · Rating 4 out of 5]

An excellent overview of circus history and life. Deftly handles the controversies around animal rights and side-shows.

[Don · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was a gift from my granddaughter. Purchased from a used book sale at our local library, she bought it for me, thus the five stars.