The fabulous showman
the life and times of P. T. Barnum.
by Irving Wallace · first published 1959
100% recommend
This book is a fast-paced, carefully documented, and rich biography of Barnum, the greatest showman of all time, the American from Bethel, Connecticut, whose eccentricities and oblique, cynical approach to humanity transformed entertainment into a big, incredibly profitable business. As bachelor, husband (twice), father, and grandfather, Barnum comes to life in Mr. Wallace's crowded pages, an exceedingly interesting and human man. Here, too, are New York City in all its nineteenth-century color, the London of Queen Victoria, and the Paris of Napoleon III. - Jacket flap.
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I'm just finishing reading The Fabulous Showman: The Life and Times of P. T. Barnum by Wallace, Irving. Recommended.
on “Ask HN: What are some good biographies to read?” ↗The Fabulous Showman: The Life and Times of P.T. Barnum by Irving Wallace http://www.amazon.com/Fabulous-Showman-Life-Times-Barnum/dp/... Barnum was masterful at using the media of his day to promote his various business…
on “Ask HN: Best book you read in 2010 and briefly why” ↗I recently picked up "The Fabulous Showman" in a used book store, a good read for entrepreneurs.
on “If you want to be rich, first stop being so frightened (2006)” ↗"The Fabulous Showman" bio of P.T. Barnum. Essential business reading.
on “Icing PayPal: How We Did It” ↗