Freaks, Geeks & Strange Girls: Sideshow Banners of the Great American Midway

by Randy Johnson, Jim Secreto, Teddy Varndell

This is a colourful history of the carnival sideshow and its distinctive banner art. With one hundred colour photographs, the book lovingly surveys this now vanished icon of early rural America, counterpointing classic freak show art with contemporary interpretations. Fifty archival black-and-white photos of sideshows provide a historical context for the banner illustrations.

Genres: Art, History, Nonfiction, Coffee Table Books

100 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1995

About the author

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Reviews

[Sezin Koehler]

A fascinating look at the men who created carnival posters as well as their incredible artwork.

[Jaccie Reaves]

This book is so amazing. This book delves into the personal connections and lifestyle of those who created banners. An important read to understand circus history.

[Erika Mulvenna]

One of my all time favorite books. Ever.

[Liz]

I consider this book to be a priceless visual reference. Really very beautiful.