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Juggling: What It Is and How to Do It
" What It Is and How to Do It" is the result of six years of work by former Cirque du Soleil juggler Thom Wall. This book teaches learners of all ages how to juggle – one of the world’s oldest artforms. With a kind demeanor, humor, and enthusiasm, Wall explains the process of juggling through four different modalities, bolstered by the latest physical education research.The practice of juggling has been proven time and time again to benefit the body and it reduces stress, increases the brain plasticity and density, and is an age-old form of active meditation." What It Is and How to Do It" is a timely and accessible primer that even a middle-schooler can hit the ground running with, or one that families can enjoy together. But make no mistake, this book isn’t child’s play. With guest chapters by some of today’s modern juggling masters, "Juggling" provides a wealth of content to span years of study for even the most serious adult learner.
- GenresNonfiction
283 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 23, 2021
18 people are currently reading
32 people want to read
About the author
Thom Wall
28 books7 followers Thom Wall is an American juggler who specializes in learning juggling tricks from the past. He has performed in 12 countries on four continents, including a run of his solo history show "On the Topic of Juggling" at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. Thom also performed as a solo act with Cirque du Soleil’s touring big-top show Totem for four and a half years.
In 2015, La Universidad Mesoamericana, home to Mexico’s traditional circus school presented Thom with La Medalla Crotalus Scholaris. This is the institution’s highest honor, and was given to him to “indelibly recognize his career as a juggler.”
Thom holds a master’s degree in nonprofit arts administration from Drexel University, a bachelor’s degree in germanic languages and literatures from Washington University in St. Louis, and certifications in adult education from Cambridge University. In 2019, he published the textbook "Juggling - From Antiquity to the Middle Ages: the forgotten history of throwing and catching," filling a large gap in the circus and theater literature.
In 2015, La Universidad Mesoamericana, home to Mexico’s traditional circus school presented Thom with La Medalla Crotalus Scholaris. This is the institution’s highest honor, and was given to him to “indelibly recognize his career as a juggler.”
Thom holds a master’s degree in nonprofit arts administration from Drexel University, a bachelor’s degree in germanic languages and literatures from Washington University in St. Louis, and certifications in adult education from Cambridge University. In 2019, he published the textbook "Juggling - From Antiquity to the Middle Ages: the forgotten history of throwing and catching," filling a large gap in the circus and theater literature.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
June 16, 2020
Every October, our family takes part in History Fest, an utterly magical outdoor historic event where we dress as characters from the past for a week and teach thousands of school children through hands-on fun. One of our friends who also volunteers is known as "Tom the juggler," a mountain of a man who taught himself to juggle for the event and who juggles everything from knives to bowling pins (you can see him in a couple of the many pics on our family homeschool blog here: https://magicandmayhemhomeschool.word...). He has taught my kids how to juggle many times over the years but they are always too busy to pay enough attention and keep at it enough to make it stick. This book is exactly the kind of book you need in the year between History Fest weeks to really learn how to juggle.
The book is very detailed, with over 200 pages to really teach you anything you need to know. Wall uses cartoon illustrations and a number line sort of diagram for most of the illustrations and these weren't the easiest for me to use for learning. I'm not sure what would work better since it's hard to teach something like this in a book though. It's very detailed and offers a lot more than just basic juggling -- variations, how to make your own, what to use, tricks, etc.
It's a great book for people who really want to learn to juggle and do it well.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review.
The book is very detailed, with over 200 pages to really teach you anything you need to know. Wall uses cartoon illustrations and a number line sort of diagram for most of the illustrations and these weren't the easiest for me to use for learning. I'm not sure what would work better since it's hard to teach something like this in a book though. It's very detailed and offers a lot more than just basic juggling -- variations, how to make your own, what to use, tricks, etc.
It's a great book for people who really want to learn to juggle and do it well.
I read a temporary digital ARC of this book for review.
June 8, 2020
Thank you NetGalley for providing me an Advanced Readers Copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Disclaimer: I'm not someone who is an avid fan of juggling, I just thought this would be a fun read since its not something that I'd normally pick up.
This book surprised me, I didn't actually expect to like it since like I previously mentioned, I'm not really a big fan of juggling. This was my first encounter with a book like this so I thought it was really interesting. Its not often that you'd get to pick up a book that perfectly shows the level of experience and talent that the author has in his craft. I was able to enjoy this even if I didn't know anything about the world of juggling nor have much interest in it; mostly because Thom is actually someone who knows what they're doing. He explains his strategy quite well and is able to give in depth explanations on almost anything related to the topic.
Disclaimer: I'm not someone who is an avid fan of juggling, I just thought this would be a fun read since its not something that I'd normally pick up.
This book surprised me, I didn't actually expect to like it since like I previously mentioned, I'm not really a big fan of juggling. This was my first encounter with a book like this so I thought it was really interesting. Its not often that you'd get to pick up a book that perfectly shows the level of experience and talent that the author has in his craft. I was able to enjoy this even if I didn't know anything about the world of juggling nor have much interest in it; mostly because Thom is actually someone who knows what they're doing. He explains his strategy quite well and is able to give in depth explanations on almost anything related to the topic.
September 15, 2020
Have you ever wanted to learn juggling? I did, ever since I saw a juggler handling more than three balls at Covent Garden - ages ago.
I'm not in anyway pretending that I've mastered the art of juggling yet, but Thom Wall's book has given me a boost. He explains the technique in words and with graphs in a way that is easy to follow and easy to copy - even for someone who suddenly has two left hands when you throw them a ball.
You should try it, it's fun.
ARC received through NetGalley. Thank you Modern Vaudeville Press.
Update, nearly two months later - I'm still not ready to join the circus, I didn't practice enough. ;-)
I'm not in anyway pretending that I've mastered the art of juggling yet, but Thom Wall's book has given me a boost. He explains the technique in words and with graphs in a way that is easy to follow and easy to copy - even for someone who suddenly has two left hands when you throw them a ball.
You should try it, it's fun.
ARC received through NetGalley. Thank you Modern Vaudeville Press.
Update, nearly two months later - I'm still not ready to join the circus, I didn't practice enough. ;-)
September 1, 2020
This is written with charm for the reader, empathy to the learner, and nods to the expert. It's packed with things that took me ages to learn through 15 years of juggling experience and thought. Having this book earlier would have shaped my thinking in a way to dramatically accelerate my learning. It shines with the glean of many hours of thought, feedback, and critical revision. There are no useless sentences in this book.
Another aspect that makes this book stand out to me is the long-exposure pictures of glow ball juggling. This is by far the most honest way of showing patterns (I get tired of artists' renditions and simulations that always fail to account for something!).
Did this book change me: Somewhat - it was a net to retrieve great ideas out of the murkiness that is my thoughts on juggling.
Disclaimer: I received an early copy of this book for no charge to give feedback.
Another aspect that makes this book stand out to me is the long-exposure pictures of glow ball juggling. This is by far the most honest way of showing patterns (I get tired of artists' renditions and simulations that always fail to account for something!).
Did this book change me: Somewhat - it was a net to retrieve great ideas out of the murkiness that is my thoughts on juggling.
Disclaimer: I received an early copy of this book for no charge to give feedback.
August 23, 2020
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Juggling is a comprehensive tutorial guide for learning and improving juggling skill. Due out 30th Sept 2020 from Modern Vaudeville Press, and written by Thom Wall, it's 249 pages and will be available in paperback format.
This is an exhaustively documented and logically laid out series of tutorials written by a juggling master who *really* knows what he's talking about. The book starts with an explanation of the diagrams used throughout and moves on step by step from basic 3 ball juggling (including positioning, tossing, catch/scooping, and repetitions) through more complex tricks and variations.
There are good takeaways here from beginning jugglers through profesisonal level. In fact the foreword is written by Matt Hall who is himself a professional and knows a thing or two about the art.
I've always been super clumsy and also have always positively yearned to learn how to juggle. I've never been successful but with the help of this book, I have -almost- managed to juggle three balls in the simplest pattern. (Trust me, this is huge for me). One of the things the author does which is brilliant is to break each and every move into smaller moves which are individually attainable. By learning each individual move and performing them sequentially, the entire rhythm and pattern can be learned.
Five stars. Very well presented. This would make a superlative gift for a juggling learner, or anyone who has ever wanted to learn. For the current climate with lockdowns and everyone learning how to make sourdough bread and all the other quarantine crafts...this would make an awesome alternative.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Juggling is a comprehensive tutorial guide for learning and improving juggling skill. Due out 30th Sept 2020 from Modern Vaudeville Press, and written by Thom Wall, it's 249 pages and will be available in paperback format.
This is an exhaustively documented and logically laid out series of tutorials written by a juggling master who *really* knows what he's talking about. The book starts with an explanation of the diagrams used throughout and moves on step by step from basic 3 ball juggling (including positioning, tossing, catch/scooping, and repetitions) through more complex tricks and variations.
There are good takeaways here from beginning jugglers through profesisonal level. In fact the foreword is written by Matt Hall who is himself a professional and knows a thing or two about the art.
I've always been super clumsy and also have always positively yearned to learn how to juggle. I've never been successful but with the help of this book, I have -almost- managed to juggle three balls in the simplest pattern. (Trust me, this is huge for me). One of the things the author does which is brilliant is to break each and every move into smaller moves which are individually attainable. By learning each individual move and performing them sequentially, the entire rhythm and pattern can be learned.
Five stars. Very well presented. This would make a superlative gift for a juggling learner, or anyone who has ever wanted to learn. For the current climate with lockdowns and everyone learning how to make sourdough bread and all the other quarantine crafts...this would make an awesome alternative.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
September 2, 2020
Totally comprehensive while still being approachable and engaging! Thom is brilliant at both doing a deep dive into the subject while still making you feel fully brought along for the ride without any pretention. It both changed up how I coach new jugglers, and illuminated ways to improve myself I never would have thought of. Basically like having a tiny pocket Thom to cheer you on and make you a better performer, 10/10.
September 4, 2020
My review is online here: http://www.clownlink.com/2020/09/04/b...
I like the book. Juggling is harder to explain than it is to do. (Not to say it can't be hard to do, but once you have the idea, you need to practice it, but explaining when to throw, or trying to explain in real time " Catch this ball with your left hand, and bring it down to your right, and then throw it underneath as you catch with your right." Is very confusing. Thom does a great job of explaining juggling, and giving good pointers on how to learn. What's great about this book is that it is aimed both at beginners and accomplished jugglers. And mediocre jugglers like myself! Anyway you slice it, if you have a serious interest in juggling, you probably should get this book.
I like the book. Juggling is harder to explain than it is to do. (Not to say it can't be hard to do, but once you have the idea, you need to practice it, but explaining when to throw, or trying to explain in real time " Catch this ball with your left hand, and bring it down to your right, and then throw it underneath as you catch with your right." Is very confusing. Thom does a great job of explaining juggling, and giving good pointers on how to learn. What's great about this book is that it is aimed both at beginners and accomplished jugglers. And mediocre jugglers like myself! Anyway you slice it, if you have a serious interest in juggling, you probably should get this book.
September 1, 2020
After reading this book, I feel like I am able to think like a juggler. I read it lounging on my couch, but I could immediately tell that when I reread it with juggling balls in hand, I am going to be successful.
As a fellow circus educator, I know that thinking through and with a technique is a huge milestone for a student. Wall achieves this easily through excellent instruction and by giving his student agency to learn at their own pace. He also assumes the student is smart and competent, and encourages them to do what they find fun.
Wall nails what I consider the magic recipe of teaching circus: technical biomechanics contextualized by why the technique works and all presented in multiple learning styles. Wall’s writing clearly and concisely explains both the broad-strokes and nuances of the biomechanics of juggling technique. Biomechanics make a successful technician, but are only one facet of a good education. Sometimes in the span of a single sentence, Wall gives his reader clear biomechanical instructions and explains why that technique is important for successful juggling. The instruction is encased in context, a necessary pairing for embodied understanding.
Human brains learn different ways, and Wall’s multimodal explanations — verbal, visual and mathematical — get the student’s whole brain working. Nothing can replace in-person tutelage, but Juggling exemplifies how holistic learning can be successfully translated into a book.
After reading Juggling, I literally felt smarter. I gained a deeper appreciation for the art form. Next time I see a juggling act, I will be able to recognize and name more of the skills I’m watching. I am now a more educated audience member. Anyone who loves to juggle should read this book, and anyone who just loves juggling should read it too!
As a fellow circus educator, I know that thinking through and with a technique is a huge milestone for a student. Wall achieves this easily through excellent instruction and by giving his student agency to learn at their own pace. He also assumes the student is smart and competent, and encourages them to do what they find fun.
Wall nails what I consider the magic recipe of teaching circus: technical biomechanics contextualized by why the technique works and all presented in multiple learning styles. Wall’s writing clearly and concisely explains both the broad-strokes and nuances of the biomechanics of juggling technique. Biomechanics make a successful technician, but are only one facet of a good education. Sometimes in the span of a single sentence, Wall gives his reader clear biomechanical instructions and explains why that technique is important for successful juggling. The instruction is encased in context, a necessary pairing for embodied understanding.
Human brains learn different ways, and Wall’s multimodal explanations — verbal, visual and mathematical — get the student’s whole brain working. Nothing can replace in-person tutelage, but Juggling exemplifies how holistic learning can be successfully translated into a book.
After reading Juggling, I literally felt smarter. I gained a deeper appreciation for the art form. Next time I see a juggling act, I will be able to recognize and name more of the skills I’m watching. I am now a more educated audience member. Anyone who loves to juggle should read this book, and anyone who just loves juggling should read it too!
August 23, 2020
As far as instruction books go, this one is definitely in my top ten. I’ve always wanted to know how to juggle, and this book is incredibly user-friendly.
For each move, there are a variety of picture styles in order to appeal to and help different learning approaches, and the book moves from beginner skills (complete with moments of “drill-able” steps for working on fundamentals) to more complex juggling arrangements. Included, too, are common mistakes new jugglers make and how to fix them.
Sprinkled throughout the book are helpful and encouraging footnotes and quotes from actual juggling studies. Despite the difference in content (skills vs the science behind them), both aspects of the piece are delivered in the same friendly and cheerful voice that is developed in each section.
While I may never be a juggling master, I did enjoy this book and will likely keep it handy for anytime the urge to learn strikes.
***ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for my review.
For each move, there are a variety of picture styles in order to appeal to and help different learning approaches, and the book moves from beginner skills (complete with moments of “drill-able” steps for working on fundamentals) to more complex juggling arrangements. Included, too, are common mistakes new jugglers make and how to fix them.
Sprinkled throughout the book are helpful and encouraging footnotes and quotes from actual juggling studies. Despite the difference in content (skills vs the science behind them), both aspects of the piece are delivered in the same friendly and cheerful voice that is developed in each section.
While I may never be a juggling master, I did enjoy this book and will likely keep it handy for anytime the urge to learn strikes.
***ARC provided by NetGalley in exchange for my review.
September 14, 2020
Thom has such a fun, encouraging writing style! You can really tell how passionate he is about the material, and that comes through in everything he writes. It's inspiring, no matter what level of juggling you are at, from beginner to professional. This book helped me get my five-ball flash! The supplementary diagrams and photos are really helpful if you are a visual learner, and Thom's descriptions and tips are great as well. Bonus: If you ever perform (or want to), Fritz Grobe's chapter is AMAZING! So true and so wonderfully written.
October 1, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I am not any better at Juggling yet but I learned some really practical tips to fix the errors I currently make from teaching myself how to juggle. Now to practice, practice, practice!
I love that each new trick is shown using multiple different visual aids. The appendices will be super helpful once I can master throwing three balls (alright lets be real, even one ball) the same height and speed each time, and have mastered the basic combos.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
I love that each new trick is shown using multiple different visual aids. The appendices will be super helpful once I can master throwing three balls (alright lets be real, even one ball) the same height and speed each time, and have mastered the basic combos.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
October 4, 2020
I loved this book by Thom Wall.
It was professionally written and explained very well about how to juggle. The Author really knows what he is talking about. There was a lot of easy to understand explanations of how to juggle with great diagrams too. It also explained about pitfalls and how to stop yourself from making these mistakes.
A book you will use repeatedly for learning how to juggle.
Thanks to Netgalley and Modern Vaudeville Press for the ARC.
It was professionally written and explained very well about how to juggle. The Author really knows what he is talking about. There was a lot of easy to understand explanations of how to juggle with great diagrams too. It also explained about pitfalls and how to stop yourself from making these mistakes.
A book you will use repeatedly for learning how to juggle.
Thanks to Netgalley and Modern Vaudeville Press for the ARC.
November 1, 2022
I thought juggling was a magical skill that only some people have. It turns out that juggling can be taught, even to me, and this book makes juggling seem possible for anyone interested. I love that each step and movement is broken down with tips along the way for the most common misconceptions that mess people up. Super helpful for a novice like me and would probably also be helpful for someone wanting to improve juggling as a practice.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews