A series of linked stories about the world around Taylor (P. T.) Barnum, his family, and his many “creatures.” The story describing how General Tom Thumb came  to join his act and was trained in Barnum’s home while playing with Barnum’s young daughters gave some insight into what life in Barnum’s family might have been like. The Jenny Lind story illustrates how an adored act might grow weary of the crowds and the routine. Through these tales, his daughters grow up, his museum and home burn down multiple times, and he remarries after the death of his first wife. At the end of the book, Barnum still remains an enigma. Was he really a better parent to his performers than to his own family? Was he the greatest showman or the greatest huckster? Those interested in Barnum and his curiosities will enjoy this book. The drawings and photographs at the top of each story are not to be missed. For middle grade readers and up.

Reviewed by Karen Sandlin Silverman, Mt. Ararat Middle School, Topsham