The Only Kid on the Carnival: An Extraordinary Childhood

by Bill Jackson

During that wonderful golden age of local children's television, many talented people pooled their skills to enthrall and edify the impressionable, appreciative viewers. Yet with no disrespect intended toward any of the others, one person stood out in his ability to spin gold out of Bill Jackson. Bill's legion of fans still cherish his amazing adventures with the memorable puppet characters that sprung from his fertile imagination on programs such as Cartoon Town, The BJ and Dirty Dragon Show, and Gigglesnort Hotel. These programs remain as fresh and entertaining today as they did when they were first broadcast, and belie their meager budgets and restrictive production schedules, thanks to Bill's artistic integrity and his coterie of hard-working crew members. Now, Bill steps out from behind his familiar TV persona to reveal a poignant personal journey filled with struggles, heartaches, and triumphs. The Only Kid on the Carnival chronicles the indomitable spirit of a young man who became one of television's most creative and gifted talents, and does so in a boldly engaging manner that touches the heart and the soul.As always, Bill Jackson does not disappoint his audience.Ted Okuda, "The Golden Age of Chicago Children's Television"

228 pages, Paperback

First published June 19, 2008

Reviews

[Dennis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I grew up with Bill Jackson. "Cartoon Town", "BJ & Dirty Dragon" and in my later years kept an eye on "Gigglesnort Hotel". Great programs for kids! Now I how Bill grew up. It was an extraordinary childhood, which led to an extraordinary career in children's television. I hope Bill publishes some memoirs of his days in television.