Circle of Sawdust A Circus Memoir of Mud Myth Mirth Mayhem and MagicI had the pleasure of being selected as an Early Reader of Circle of Sawdust A Circus Memoir of Mud Myth Mirth Mayhem and Magic A soon to be published book from Circus Smirkus founder Rob Mermim I can highly recommend this book. The book which covers than 60 years of the author s life is equal parts biography and mid to late 20th century circus history It is a fast paced read through the author s early life where he decides to leave home in the United States to become a circus performer in Europe He ultimately returns to the States and is the founder of Circus Smirkus in Vermont The first two thirds of the book focus on the author s adventures traveling throughout Europe as a performer clown and mime with Hoffman Benneweis and Kossmayer. The author shares with the reader his thoughts fears triumphs and losses The book is a fast paced read with drama humor and introspection coupled with the challenges of learning to be a performer on the job the sometimes difficulties of working with animals his dog Rufus and Kansas the mule to name a few and the joys of succeeding when as a performer he finally connects with a live audience He shares with the reader how skits are developed often from real life experiences and how important timing is to the delivery. The book concludes with an homage to the author s mime mentor the great Marcel Marceau and some of the author s career highlights his proud development of the famed Circus Smirkus named by his mother which is a place where kids can follow their dreams into the circus ring Still operating today I encourage readers to go to their website to see some incredible videos of amazing kids spending their summers learning to be circus performers 9781578691562 I just finished reading an Advance Readers copy of this great new book by Mr Mermin I feel privileged to have to get to review it If you love animals circus clowns kids etc etc you ll love this new book coming out this month This author had a vision and plan from a young man and followed it all the way through He overcame so many obstacles I really admired him Read it. you won t be disappointed 9781578691562 I LOVED reading Rob Mermin s memoir Circle of Sawdust about his adventures touring with small Family owned traveling Circuses in Europe With hardly plan than a desire to fulfill his dream he stumbles into the no rules world of Circus life taking his knocks while learning from those with generations of experience Trusting in whatever might propel him towards establishing his own small tent Circus Mr Mermin encounters random coincidences that as if pre ordained lead him closer to creating Circus Smirkus in Vermont a Circus that kids can run away to join for weeks at a time A Dreamer at heart Mr Mermin shares his conviction that everyone who harbors their own dream no matter how grand or humble no matter how many setbacks disappointments encountered will be the richer for the effort I feel richer for having shared in his personal celebration of possibility for all Librarians Get this Book for your Patrons young and old 9781578691562 Rob Mermin s Circle of Sawdust takes readers on an exhilarating journey through the life of a man who turned his boyhood dream into a reality by founding Circus Smirkus This memoir chronicles Rob s life before establishing the circus highlighting his early aspiration to join a traveling circus a dream that led him to run away in 1969 His path to success was significantly shaped by his studies under the renowned mime Marcel Marceau who became a close friend and mentor Rob s journey took him across England as he honed his craft and built his reputation as Clown Robin eventually leading to a prestigious invitation to perform at Circus Benneweis in Copenhagen a notable highlight of his career. The book captures the essence of Rob s experiences detailing both the triumphs and challenges of his profession The narrative is enriched by vivid descriptions that bring the circus world to life offering a behind the scenes glimpse into the realities of circus life From the peak moments of his career such as his partnership with the remarkable performance dog Rufus to the struggles of facing financial hardships and unemployment Rob s story is both inspiring and humbling One of the memoir s strengths lies in its ability to convey the thrill and unpredictability of the circus while also imparting broader life lessons Rob s determination and passion for his dream shine through making this not just a recounting of his career but a testament to the power of perseverance The author s ability to capture the magic of the circus while maintaining an anonymous presence in his performances adds a unique layer of intrigue and charm to the narrative Readers will find themselves smiling at moments of quiet revelation where Rob witnesses the audience s awe at his performances without them realizing the performer is in their midst. Circle of Sawdust is a celebration of pursuing one s dreams with relentless determination Rob Mermin s engaging storytelling and rich evocative descriptions make this book a compelling and enlightening read It stands out as one of the most distinctive and inspirational memoirs offering a deep appreciation for the dedication and artistry of those who bring the magic of the circus to life 9781578691562