A new and improved version of a wonderful juvenile series:
More juvenile fiction. An omnibus edition of the 5-book "Circus Boys" series, originally published between 1910 and 1920. The books tell the exciting adventures of Phil and Teddy, two teenage boys who run away to join the circus (a popular activity of the time, seemingly!).
As described by the publisher:
"No call to the heart of the youth of America finds a readier response than the call of the billowing canvas, the big red wagons, the crash of the circus band and the trill of the ringmaster's whistle. It is a call that captures the imagination of old and young alike, and so do the books of this series capture and enthrall the reader, for they were written by one who, besides weilding a master pen, has followed the sawdust trail from coast to coast, who knows the circus people and the sturdy manliness of those who do and dare for the entertainment of millions of circus-goers when the grass is green. Mr. Darlington paints a true picture of circus life."
Er, "sturdy manliness"? ...
"Phil Forrest, proud and happy, bounded out into the paddock, resplendent in pink tights, a black girdle about his loins, sparkling with silver spangles....Mr. Sparling, hardened showman that he was, brushed a suspicious hand across his eyes and sat down suddenly. "Such grit, Such grit!" he muttered..."
Leaving aside the pink tights and silver spangles (
) this is a wonderful series. Thoroughly recommend reading!