Clown: My Life in Tatters and Smiles

by Emmett Kelly, F. Beverly Kelly (Co-author)

Autobiography of the American circus clown,Emmett Kelly(born Dec. 9, 1898, Sedan, Kan., U.S.—died March 28, 1979, Sarasota, Fla.), best known for his role as “Weary Willie,” a mournful tramp dressed in tattered clothes and made up with a growth of beard and a bulbous nose.

Genres: Nonfiction

271 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 1954

Reviews

[Isebella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such an amazing read. Emmett Kelly lived a fascinating life full of work, travel and stories. He was so passionate about his art and craft in the circus, while perfecting his character "Willie." I thought it was quite admirable that he was protective of "Willie" and how he portrayed his clown persona in the public eye, especially in Hollywood.
It's a bit of a shame that clowns get such a bad reputation now, especially when no one really knows their stories as actual people and performers.
Highly recommend this book. It's a fun read and I have a new found respect for Emmett Kelly and "Willie."

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was delighted to run across this book on the nonfiction shelves of the Rochester Public Library. I did not know anything about Emmett Kelly the clown, but I thoroughly enjoyed reading about his life growing up around the first World War and the Midwest and major cities around that time. I enjoyed hearing about the impacts of the historical fires that occurred during this time during circuses and in Boston. it was all so fascinating from the standpoint of his career - realizing how much work this career as a clown was, and how much creativity Kelly put into being a clown and evolving as a major circus figure.

[Stevie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was born in Sarasota. He is probably like my real dad or something.

[Royce Ratterman · Rating 4 out of 5]

A smooth reading memoir/autobiography with a birds-eye-view of a life leading to-and-fro from the romantic lure of circus life. I found this work of immense interest and its contents inspiring.
Read for personal historical research - number rating relates to the book's contribution to my needs.
Overall, this work is also a good resource for the researcher and enthusiast.

[Evelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I remember reading and enjoying this book as a teenager. Mr. Kelly had a remarkable life as a clown.