Feminism, family, lives of performers

THE dedication in Emma Cowing's debut novel The Show Woman reads “For my mum, the original show woman”.

- BERYL EICHENBERGER

THE SHOW WOMAN

Emma Cowing Loot.co.za (R353) HODDER AND STOUGHTON

Show women one and all, their lot was not easy, moving around with burgeoning families, those that were married, or as the child of a performer or worker. It was a transient life, close bonds formed with fellow travelers, families intermingling. Circus back then included animals as well as tumblers, trapeze, clowns and more and Big Top was a magical place for any child. Perhaps as children we've all imagined running away with the circus less romantic when you are actually part of it, which Cowing writes with authority.