In October 1889, the Barnum and Bailey Circus sailed for England from America. It comprised of 1,200 people, 330 horses and many other animals; it was known as the Greatest Show on Earth and it did not disappoint; this was the heyday of the circus.

Throughout history people have been awestruck at performances of simple acrobats and acts of extraordinary abilities, and the circus tapped into that idea.

This fascinating book looks at the many aspects of this type of theatre from tightrope walkers, trapeze artists, bareback riders, lion tamers and of course, the clowns.

It examines the history of the circus, its fascination for artists and writers who sought inspiration there and looks at the famous stars of the circus ring.

Entertainment of this nature has been on the decline since the end of the Second World War when movies and TV became the latest things to watch and Disneyland the spectacle to visit, but the 1960s saw a nostalgia for the circus and children were enthralled with Circus Boy on TV.

There are many photographs in this book, but it is the well researched and with easy text and many anecdotes that bring the circus to life for the reader.

However, since then and since the rights of animals have been protected, the touring circuses are now only small affairs compared to what they were.

We are, however, still captured by the dangerous death-defying feats that have their roots in the circus. When Nik Wallenda performed the highest blindfolded tightrope walk between two Chicago skyscrapers in November 2014, crowds lined the streets in awe and the video has become an internet sensation.

This excellent book shows us a glimpse into a part of social history that is often forgotten and reminds us of the magic the circus brought.