The James Adams Floating Theatre

Based on a true story, Edna Ferber's novel "Show Boat" follows the James Adams, a showboat built by a farmer-turned-circus aerialist, and its exciting and entertaining journey through isolated small towns in early twentieth-century America.

Format: Hardback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2023
Publisher: Schiffer Publishing Ltd

In the early 20th century, a remarkable boat, inspired by the famous novel by Edna Ferber, brought excitement and entertainment to isolated small towns along the East Coast of America. The boat's builder, James E. Adams, was a farmer from Michigan who, with determination and a unique skill set, transformed himself into a circus aerialist. He founded and successfully ran his own carnival company, showcasing his talents to audiences around the country. As retirement loomed, Adams sought a new challenge and embarked on the construction of a remarkable showboat.

The book, titled "The James Adams: A Story of Showboats and Circuses," takes readers on a captivating journey through the history of this remarkable vessel. It traces the James Adams from its inception to its tragic demise, spanning twenty-seven years. The tale is filled with heart-stopping moments, including fires, sinkings, a shooting, arrests, and several deaths.

Adams' journey as a circus aerialist and boat builder is a testament to his indomitable spirit and determination. He faced numerous obstacles and setbacks, but his unwavering passion and talent propelled him forward. The James Adams became a symbol of hope and entertainment for those living in remote communities, providing a glimpse into a world of glamour and excitement.

However, the boat's journey was not without its challenges. Adams faced financial difficulties, legal disputes, and even personal tragedies. But he never lost sight of his dream and continued to push forward, even in the face of adversity. The James Adams became a legend, a symbol of the American spirit and the power of determination.

In conclusion, the boat on which Edna Ferber based her famous novel brought excitement and entertainment to isolated small towns up and down the East Coast in early twentieth-century America. The builder of the boat, James E. Adams, was a farmer from Michigan who taught himself to be a circus aerialist, started and prospered with his own carnival company, and, when retirement proved boring, decided to build a showboat. The book traces the history of the James Adams from its inception until its demise twenty-seven years later, a tale that includes fires, sinkings, a shooting, arrests, and several deaths. Adams' journey as a circus aerialist and boat builder is a testament to his indomitable spirit and determination, and the James Adams became a symbol of hope and entertainment for those living in remote communities. The boat's legacy continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.

Weight: 868g
Dimension: 261 x 190 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780870334160