The Circus Fire: A True Story of an American Tragedy

by Stewart O'Nan

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Book cover for The Circus Fire

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The acclaimed author of Emily, Alone and Henry, Himself brings all his narrative gifts to bear on this gripping account of tragedy and heroism—the great Hartford circus fire of 1944.

It was a midsummer afternoon, halfway through a Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus performance, when the big top caught fire. The tent had been waterproofed with a mixture of paraffin and gasoline; in seconds it was burning out of control. More than 8,000 people were trapped inside, and the ensuing disaster would eventually take 167 lives.

Steward O'Nan brings all his narrative gifts to bear on...Read more
  • ISBN10 0385496850
  • ISBN13 9780385496858
  • Publish Date 12 June 2001 (first published 1 June 2000)
  • Publish Status Active
  • Publish Country US
  • Imprint Anchor Books