During the years 1880 to 1940; the glory days of the American circus; a third to a half of the cast members were womenmdash;a large group of very visible American workers whose story needs telling. This book; using sources such as diaries; autobiographies; newspaper accounts; films; posters; and route books; first considers the popular mediarsquo;s presentation of these performers as unnatural and scandalousmdash;as well as romantic and thrilling. Next are the stories told by circus women; which contradict and complicate other versions of their lives. Across America in those years an array of acts featured women; such as tableaux; freak shows; girlie shows; tiger acts; and aerial performances; all involving special skills and all detailed here. The book offers a unique and fascinating view of not just the circus but of what it meant to be an American woman at work.
#3075627 in eBooks 2012-10-12 2012-10-12File Name: B009W4F9HE
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Women Who Made Us LaughBy DahmiaLaughter is a great stress reliever and these gals will have you limp as a wet noodle with all their groundbreaking antics of comedy.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Loved reading herBy JaySusan Horowitz is a concise and entertaining writer. Loved reading her book0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Five StarsBy Louis SasaronesA great read but nothing in depth.
