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Start giftingThe Great and Only Barnum
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Learn moreCome one, come all to this larger-than-life biography of P. T. Barnum, showman and founder of the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Visit Barnum's American Museum, established in only four weeks! Meet Madame Josephine Clofulia, the Swiss Bearded Lady. Get to know Tom Thumb, a miniature man (only twenty-five inches tall), and his tiny bride (thirty-two inches). Watch as the circus parade goes by, elephants tail to trunk, costumed performers waving, lions yawning. Then, under the big top, as Barnum steps into the spotlight, cast your eyes on the center ring and prepare to be amazed.
Drawing on old circus posters, photographs, etchings, ticket stubs, playbills(see Bonus CD for this material!), award-winning author Candace Fleming presents history as it's never been experienced before — a stupendous, tremendous, showstopping event!
Candace Fleming spent two years researching this book — from spending time in archives and libraries to learning how to play a steam calliope, riding an elephant, winning (and wearing) a red rubber nose at the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey circus when it came to Chicago, and even walking the tightrope (two feet off the ground) at Ringling Brothers’ former winter quarters in Baraboo, Wisconsin.