The story of a young woman who runs away with the circus sounds a bit trite, but Fontaine tells the story of a year in her own life, and it is captivating. She joins The World of Wonders, America’s last traveling side show. Fontaine weaves stories of her ailing mother and stories from her childhood into the story of her time with the sideshow. One of the quotes on the back cover says: “I have never read a book more tender or more true.” This quote would never have prompted me to read the book, but having read the book, I can attest that it is apt. For readers who dislike memoirs, as I do, I urge you to make an exception. An unusual, highly readable book.