The Great and Only Barnum

Gr 6 Up—Inheriting his grandfather's practical jokester ways, P. T. Barnum became one of the world's greatest showmen. Candace Fleming (Random House, 2009) traces Barnum's life from his youth in Bethel, Connecticut, to his final days as the part owner of the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Her unbiased biography doesn't pull any punches, discussing his problems with alcoholism and his faults as well as his humane side and exuberant personality. Along with the interesting description of Barnum's life are cameos about performers who worked for him, information about his family, and brief descriptions of some of his curiosities. The bonus CD includes the wonderful period photos and illustrations from the print version that help bring the text to life. This informative, entertaining biography is an outstanding choice for school reports, reluctant readers, and just for fun.—Sarah Flood, Breckinridge County Public Library, Hardinsburg, KY