Freaks of Sideshow and Film

Explore the lives of over 150 of the top sideshow performers of by-gone days, as well as the history of the circus and sideshow. Take a look behind the scenes at the banner artists, gaff artists, photographers, and showmen who made the freak show as American as apple pie. The performers were born different-very different-yet they managed to create a life for themselves, find gainful employment, travel the world, marry, and have children. Some even managed to find true happiness. You will meet some very unique souls in extraordinary bodies. Look beyond their physical differences and delve into their interesting stories. See for yourself why being born different is not so bad, with the right attitude and a little luck! AUTHOR: Mary Brett was born into a family of antique dealers and claims she loves the olden days much more than modern times. This is her third book. She holds a BFA from Virginia Commonwealth University and lives in Richmond, Virginia. She became interested in sideshow performers after seeing the 1932 cult classic, Freaks. Mary spent over three years researching the lives of the 152 performers presented in this book.
Stevan Gould was born in San Francisco. He has travelled extensively, including two years spent riding freight trains across America. The circus is in his blood. He is related to William C. Coup, P.T. Barnum’s business partner, and he worked for a summer with Standley Shows of Hot Springs, Arkansas, where he experienced carnival life first-hand. Today he lives a much quieter life in Richmond, Virginia, but is still inclined to occasionally give in to wanderlust and hit the road. 663 colour and b/w images