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Rating: 
Summary: Gritty, Sympathetic
Review: As a former circus performer and trouper myself (20 years in the business) I found Ms. Stroud's book an enjoyable read. Her descriptions of life on modern English circuses could apply here in the US. Her chapter on the hypocrisy of the animal rights fanatics in Great Britain in regards to the presence of horses in the circus and their apparent lack of interest in the use horses in other aspects of human activities to me was one of the most interesting chapters in the book. Circus life is a tough one and not for the weak -- they just don't last. If you want to find out what it is like day to day with tented circuses, especially British shows, in this age when, through the actions of uncaring, unknowing and unreasoning organizations and individuals dedicated to the demise of the circus, the circus is relegated to the fringes of society, this is a must read. If you think the circus is all pretty girls, cotton candy and the clowns, read this one!
Rating:
Summary: Run Away to the Circus
Review: Nell is a bit different from the rest of us - unlike those who fantasize about running away to the circus, she did.'Josser' is a term used by circus people to describe those who aren't from circus families but work in the circus - like Nell. It's not exactly a compliment - to Nell's credit she stayed in the circus for three years before writing this book and starting a new circus of her own. If you ever wanted to know what's it like to actually live out a fantasy, read this... Nell writes very well, and the book in that way is a pleasure. It's also sad though, since much of it is about her mother, who was brain-damaged in a riding accident a few years before the events of the book took place, and about Nell's efforts to come to terms with that. A moving and inspiring read.
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