Wonders: Lifting the Curtain on the Freak Show, Circus and Victorian Age

The Wonders is a new history of the Victorian age that explores the forgotten and extraordinary freak performers who helped define an era, using recently discovered material to bring their stories to life. It reveals the birth of showbusiness, celebrity, advertising, and 'alternative facts' while exploring the tensions between fame, exploitation, and our fascination with 'otherness'.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 02 May 2019
Publisher: Michael O'Mara Books Ltd

A promising young historian with a penchant for the exotic, Stephen Fry delves into the realm of history with his groundbreaking work, "The Wonders." This radical new perspective on the Victorian age unveils the forgotten and extraordinary freak performers who played a pivotal role in shaping this remarkable era. On March 23, 1844, General Tom Thumb, standing at a mere 25 inches tall, made an awe-inspiring entrance into the Picture Gallery at Buckingham Palace, where he gracefully bowed before Queen Victoria. This historic encounter marked a significant turning point in the 19th century, ushering in the age of the freak. Captivating audiences across the Atlantic, this extraordinary world showcased dwarfs, giants, bearded ladies, Siamese twins, and charismatic showmen, creating a spectacle that has since inspired countless novels, films, and musicals. However, the untold human dramas behind these captivating performances have often been overshadowed or marginalized in the histories of the very individuals who exploited them.

In his captivating account, Dr. John Woolf employs a wealth of recently discovered material to bring to life the poignant, triumphant, and extraordinary stories of individuals who embraced their (dis)abilities and differences, paving the way for them to become some of the first international celebrities. Through their lives, we embark on a journey of discovery, unearthing the profound transformations of the age, including the birth of showbusiness, celebrity culture, advertising, and the emergence of "alternative facts." At the same time, "The Wonders" explores the intricate tensions between fame, exploitation, and our enduring fascination with "otherness."

This captivating work not only sheds light on the forgotten heroes of the Victorian era but also offers a thought-provoking examination of the human condition, challenging our perceptions and inspiring us to embrace diversity and individuality. Stephen Fry's "The Wonders" is a testament to the power of history and storytelling, reminding us of the importance of recognizing and valuing the contributions of those who have been marginalized and overlooked.

Weight: 708g
Dimension: 237 x 164 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781782439936