Did you know that this year is the 250th anniversary of circus in the UK? I certainly didn’t although I live in an area of Gloucestershire that regularly hosts the wonderful Giffords Circus.

This book is written by mime artist, educator, teacher and founding member of the American Youth Circus Organisation, Jackie Leigh Davis, who provides an absolute wealth of circus skills for children; and she makes it clear in her preface that circus sees all colours, all kinds of bodies, it’s inclusive, it’s for everyone. I like that.

Readers are given an overview of the various circus skills: Acrobatics, acrobalance and pyramids, aerial arts, (for safety reasons, these are not covered in the book), balance arts, clowning, gyroscopic juggling and toss juggling.

This is followed by a ‘What’s in this book?’ spread that begins with the words, ‘This book empowers you to take your first steps in circus.’ I like that too. Herein are included some wise words on safety, a crucial element, and it also includes a ‘proceed at your own risk’ disclaimer.

Next comes the individual units wherein as well as instructions for learning the skills, readers are invited to make their own circus props such as hoops, juggling sticks and balls, poi, stilts and clown hats and nose; T-shirts even.

The instructions are always easy to follow and there are photos to help.

While the particular skill under discussion might be at a beginners level, the author also includes fascinating historical references, the positive impact of each skill learned and, where appropriate links to on-line tutorials.
Putting on a show is addressed too and in the final pages are information on additional resources, recommendations for further study and more.

Intended to engender and foster a child’s enthusiasm for circus arts, but in addition think how important skills of balance and co-ordination are for adults as we grow older. (I can even envisage some of the activities being tried with an old folks group.)

All in all, this is an excellent book, comprehensive and done superbly, it’s well worth investing in for families, schools and other groups that have an interest in exploring and fostering the circus arts and their potential.