Overview

Full Product Details

9781860496950

Table of Contents

Reviews

A dream book THE BOOKSELLER She did something we all dream of doing. Her book is a brave attempt to keep this dream alive Dea Birkett Above all Stroud has written an elegy for the circus and its traditions...We are lucky to have the record of this book INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY JOSSER is a paean to the circus: an impassioned plea for understanding and tolerance of its performers, as well as an obsessive account of the daily hardships of life in the Big Top TLS

The author stands in a unique, and somewhat awkward position. Having gained a thorough insight into circus life due to the extensive amount of time she has spent leading this extraordinary existence, as a 'josser', an outsider in the eyes of the Circus Family, she will never truly be a part of it. Perching on this borderline, however, she is able to empathize with both her new friends and their bizarre way of life, as well as the normality of her old life. Tragic circumstances led her to run away to this exciting new life, but what she wasn't prepared for were the tough mental and physical tests that had to be faced. The book is littered with all kinds of colourful and fascinating characters, all larger-than-life, as you would expect, and plenty of adventure. Stroud depicts beautifully a lively and dramatic world, and the compelling community within it. (Kirkus UK)

'A dream book' THE BOOKSELLER 'She did something we all dream of doing. Her book is a brave attempt to keep this dream alive' Dea Birkett 'Above all Stroud has written an elegy for the circus and its traditions...We are lucky to have the record of this book' INDEPENDENT ON SUNDAY 'JOSSER is a paean to the circus: an impassioned plea for understanding and tolerance of its performers, as well as an obsessive account of the daily hardships of life in the Big Top' TLS 'You may think you know about the circus. But if you really want to find out about it, read this beautifully written, lucid account of the secret life of a circus girl.' Nigel Williams 'Unflinchingly honest.' LITERARY REVIEW 'This book is about glamous, hard work and art... It's an extraordinary achievement, pulling you in with a kind of solemn warmth and quite brilliantly written.' MAIL ON SUNDAY 'Stroud's book is measured but expressive, and beyond her own story lies a moving depiction of a form of entertainment on the brink of extinction.' OBSERVER '[A] fascinating journey through the emotional border-lands of England.' NEW STATESMAN 'A captivating first book which will change the way you see the circus forever.' IRISH TIMES 'This is a compelling book, offering a rare glimpse into a disappearing world.' DAILY MIRROR

Author Information

Nell Stroud was born in Oxford in 1973. She studied English Literature at the university before leaving to join the circus. This is her first book.

Tab Content 6

Customer Reviews

Recent Reviews

Countries Available