"In this collection of linked stories, Deborah Noyes digs . . . into what is known about the people in Barnum's . . . life, imagining their inner worlds against the . . . backdrop of his American Museum and circuses"--Dust jacket.

The mermaid (1842) -- The mysterious arm (1842) -- Returning a bloom to its bud (1845) -- Beside myself (1851) -- We will always be sisters (1852) -- The fairy wedding (1863) -- An extraordinary specimen of magnified humanity (1865) -- The Bearded Lady's son (1868) -- It's not humbug if you believe it (1869) -- All elephants are tragic (1889) -- What makes you think we want you here? (1891).