The Flimflam Man

I'm always on the lookout for books about Oklahoma and Oklahoma history. The Flimflam Man by Darleen Bailey Beard is a delightful addition to my collection. Although the story is fiction, it's based on an actual event that took place in 1950 in the town of Wetumka, Oklahoma, and resulted in the annual Sucker Day Festival that continues today. The story is about two girls, Clara Jean and Bobbie Jo, and how they become friends through their experience with F. Bam Morrison, the Flimflam Man, who is selling advance tickets to Bohn's United Circus Shows. What I love about the book is the memories it evoked. As an Oklahoman, I had to smile as Clara Jean talked about the cow-chip throwing contest. I cheered Clara Jean and Bobbie Jo on as they raced their bikes through oil fields in an attempt to catch the Flimflam man. I became nostalgic as I read about Bobbi Jo's reel-to-reel tape recorder and Clara Jean's clear plastic rain boots. The Flimflam man is a trip down memory lane for anyone who grew up in the 50's. Kids will love the book because it's entertaining. The girls are funny; the illustrations are adorable; and the plot is interesting. Whether you're studying Oklahoma history or just looking for a good book to read to your child, I heartily recommend The Flimflam Man.

"A two-faced weasel is someone who shows one face in public but hides another face for his evil deeds," Mr. Morrison said. He turned around and parted his hair. "Do you see another face back there?"Mr. Morrison is the flimflam man in this story, and he has conned two vulnerable girls, former foes who gradually become friends, into helping him promote a circus that is supposedly coming to town.This story, a chapter book written at about the third grade level, appeals to students all the way up to 6th grade in our school. It has a genuine feel for small town Wetumka, Oklahoma, in 1950, which is where this historical fiction story (based on actual events) takes place. Darleen Bailey Beard makes the plot and characters work on at least two levels: first, it serves as a warning that not everyone can be trusted, and secondly, it's a heartwarming tale about a friendship that develops out of adversity.The lessons taught in this short (85 page) book are those that children need to hear. Recommended.

This book was very good. I read it because the author was coming to my school. When I first heard she was coming, I wasn't that excited. Then, after I read this book, I couldn't wait! I think you would like this book.

Darleen Beard's book, The Flim Flam Man, made me laugh out loud. Kids of all ages will this tale and, at the same time, learn a little about Oklahoma history, too. Can't wait for this author's next book!What fun!