Includes bibliographical references (pages [283]-289).

Many Historians Claim The sideshow began with P. T. Barnum, yet the concept has existed for as long as there has been human curiosity. When something different or unusual appears before you-living or inanimate-you're intrigued, amazed, or maybe even disgusted. But you want to see it.

If you're walking down a street and you see a little person, you look. You don't blatantly stare or gawk-no, you follow the societal rules of proper conduct and sneak a few furtive glances to satisfy your curiosity. Just as everyone else does. What's it like, you wonder, to live in a world not built for your size? To be unable to reach high countertops? To be an adult and have to shop in the children's section? For that matter, how do the armless or legless compensate for their missing limbs? How does a conjoined twin maintain sanity without a moment of privacy? It's natural to be curious about physical abnormalities. The human body takes many different forms and shapes, some considered "freakish." Freaks have always been, and always will be, fascinating.

Yet regardless of their physical abnormalities, the people presented here triumphed over their disadvantages, defied expectations, succeeded financially, and often found love. This book is a look at their lives, their trials and tribulations, and is also a visual record of the uniqueness of humanity.