The intrigue of Water for Elephants and The Aerialist

So, I never said I loved going to the circus...I don't know if it is the smell or the treatment of the animals (let's not get too carried away, I eat red meat and wear leather), but after reading Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen and The Aerialist by Richard Schmitt, I was intrigued by circus life. I read Water for Elephants and suggested it as a book club selection; my book club entourage accepted and I hosted that month's book club at my condo. Intellectually, I challenged the historical nature of the novel, but was pleasantly surprised with its accuracy. Several years later, my husband suggested I read a hand-me-down favorite, The Aerialist. The circus life became increasingly curious. The Aerialist had a different spin in a very different decade, but also a highly addictive read.

Now, only 45 minutes south of Sarasota, I am compelled to visit the John and Mabel Ringling estate which includes the Circus Museum that was described at the end of Gruen's book (I think after the novel ends in the acknowledgement section, but I could be wrong on the placement of these photos in her book). Anyway, Gruen's novel initially inspired me and now so close to the circus museum, I am so excited. We should be headed there tomorrow. Or the warm mineral springs and massages with hot stones and detoxifying body wraps. Either way, I will be at the Ringling estate and circus museum. You can count on that! I will keep you posted.