Death of a Circus

"death of a circus" explores interracial romance, animal abuse, the dangerous lure of fame, and the price of defying a system of misogyny and sexual repression, all against the colorful backdrop of a big top tent. ms. prasad's thorough research enabled her to bring to life a world with its own distinctive language, customs, and rigidly hierarchical society. as the circus train meanders about the country and through the early 20th century, the narrative shifts focus between a series of protagonists: the daring young black man who's willing to risk his life to be a star; the fiery redhead who uses her beauty and fearlessness to escape the tenements of her childhood and, fittingly, become a fire-eater; the mysterious animal trainer who isn't quite sure how to interact with humans. as the next generation of performers prepares to take center ring, the circus struggles to compete against the more powerful ringling brothers, with predictable results given the book's title. a great read, especially for anyone who's always been fascinated by the big top.