Circus Kings Our Ringling Family Story

by Henry Ringling North, Alden Hatch

The Circus Kings, first published in 1960 and authored by a nephew of the original Ringling Brothers, is a fascinating insider's account of circus life and lore. From humble beginnings in Baraboo, Wisconsin, the Ringling family would go on to create “The Greatest Show on Earth,” delighting audiences across America. Along the way, however, were the behind-the-scenes financial struggles, tragedies such as fires and labor strikes, legal battles, and changing entertainment tastes. Henry Ringling North ran Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus from 1936 to 1967, along with his older brother, John. Included are 18 pages of photographs."Told in the first person with spirit, modesty, and almost stunning candor, . . . [North's] intimate documentary of a restless, quarreling, affectionate, often vulgar, innately genteel, greedy and generous, tricky but honest, vividly imaginative clan comes perilously close to being a tour de force. . . . A wonderful and worthwhile book."--New York Times Book Review"A fascinating, excellently written book for everyone, young or old, who has ever loved a circus."—Herald Tribune Book Review

305 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 22, 2019

Reviews

[sue phillips]

Great Great story Of the Ringling brothers and Barnum and bailey circus

Since a child I have always loved Ringling Brothers Circus. So great to read this book and learn the insides of the circus, of the Ringling brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, how it was run, and learn more about some of the performers. This book was authored by a nephew of the original Ringling brothers so very truthful.

[Larry J Duncan]

Wonderful story

Well written!! The storyline continues to develop along side other events in history giving breadth and depth to a family saga.

The Ringlings and cousins are American heroes.

[Trudy Mara]

As a resident of Baraboo, " Circus City," I thoroughly enjoyed this book, which captured to joy and excitement of the circus. I certainly helped me to understand my city's circus heritage better, too.

[ThinkPiece]

A readable history of the Ringling Bros. circus, told by a nephew of their only sister, Ida. Combination of circus lore with family shenanigans, though the writer is largely sympathetic towards the last surviving brother, John Ringling.

Not sure how well documented it is, as some of what is stated as fact is refuted by other sources. Read it with a grain of salt, enjoy!