Book details
Sideshow: Ten Original Tales of Freaks, Illusionists and Other Matters Odd and Magical
Description
Freaks, magicians, psychics, and the passing strange take center stage in ten original tales by top YA authors and graphic novelists.Molly is a bearded girl who joins the circus, only to find that her former tormentor faces a far hairier plight. Tia claims that her lamented mom is a three-thousand-year-old mummy, but is it really an act? Cody sets out to foil a pop psychic, but the shocking result is not what he planned for. And Tiffany's grandma sees something wild in her future, but is the girl prepared for the powerful shape it will take? Whether the sideshow touts a two-headed rat or a turn-of-the-century American jargo, whether the subject discovers an odd kind of miracle or learns that the real freaks are outside the tent, these stories and graphic tales are by turns humorous and insightful, edgy and eerie, but always compulsively entertaining.
Age
14-17
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
240 pages
Why to read
- Diverse Storytelling: 'Sideshow' offers a collection of ten unique stories, each written by a different author, providing a variety of voices and perspectives within the realms of the odd and magical. This diversity ensures a fresh experience with each tale, appealing to a wide range of readers.
- Exploration of the Unusual: The anthology delves into the world of freak shows, illusionists, and the supernatural, exploring themes that are not commonly found in mainstream literature. This provides an opportunity for readers to step outside their comfort zones and experience the allure of the strange and the bizarre.
- Literary Quality: Deborah Noyes, the editor of the collection, has carefully curated stories from accomplished authors known for their strong writing and imaginative storytelling. Readers can expect a high standard of literary quality, which can be both entertaining and thought-provoking.
- Cultural and Historical Insight: Many of the stories in 'Sideshow' are set in historical periods or draw upon cultural elements related to the circus and performance arts. This gives readers a chance to gain insight into the historical context of sideshows and the societal perceptions of those who were labeled as 'freaks' or 'outsiders.'