crookedtreehouse's review against another edition
3.0
Some biographies give me the feeling that the creator is too close to his subject matter to know what parts of the story are interesting, and what can be edited out.
That's how this felt to me.
The story of Schlitzie is interesting, but the transitions from sideshow to sideshow were all fairly similar, and they seemed unnecessarily repetitive from a narrative standpoint.
Overall, I felt that this was an enjoyable 100 page graphic novel that expanded into a 250 page passion project that will probably delight both Bill Griffith fans, and those more interested in the biography of a 20th century sideshow performer, but kept losing my attention.
I recommend it for fans of Zippy the Pinhead, sideshow enthusiasts, and anyone whose graphic novel interest leans more towards biography than fiction.
That's how this felt to me.
The story of Schlitzie is interesting, but the transitions from sideshow to sideshow were all fairly similar, and they seemed unnecessarily repetitive from a narrative standpoint.
Overall, I felt that this was an enjoyable 100 page graphic novel that expanded into a 250 page passion project that will probably delight both Bill Griffith fans, and those more interested in the biography of a 20th century sideshow performer, but kept losing my attention.
I recommend it for fans of Zippy the Pinhead, sideshow enthusiasts, and anyone whose graphic novel interest leans more towards biography than fiction.
aeternizare's review against another edition
5.0
Bloody engaging book, beautifully drawn and a delight to read.
alex_kies's review against another edition
emotional
funny
informative
inspiring
sad
medium-paced
5.0
bao_bao's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
5.0
readbyashleyd's review against another edition
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
5.0
Shortly after finally being able to watch the cult classic Freaks, I randomly came across this graphic novel and I knew I had to have it! Schlitzie was one of my favourite parts of the movie Freaks, their presence just shone through the camera and completely captured my full attention every time they were on screen. My favourite was the bit about the hat with the feather and I was delighted to see it reacted while reading this. I really had no idea Schlitzie had such a long and prolific career outside of Freaks and getting to learn about it all was so interesting. Seeing how Schlitzie got into the sideshow circuit and their beginnings as one of the most famous “pinheads” was really special and I’m so glad I was able to learn more about them and their life as a performer. The graphic novel format really suited this story so well, it felt like I was watching a biographical movie about Schlitzie and it was the perfect way to bring their fascinating story to life!
beththebookdragon's review against another edition
4.0
Engaging, compassionately told story of "Schlitzie" a microcephalic person born in the early 1900s who spent a life appearing in circus sideshows. Griffith is straightforward about the uncertainties of Schlitzie's backstory, presents both kind and violent treatment by his "owners" and other members of the circus, and visually portrays Schlitzie's life in detailed and understated line art.
Recommended for teens and adults interested in sideshow people and life and of people who are significantly "different" from the average person.
Recommended for teens and adults interested in sideshow people and life and of people who are significantly "different" from the average person.
kellikaos's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
sad
medium-paced
4.5
Great read about a great human. I knew about Schlitzie before reading this but didn't know this much. What happened with his adopted sister was beyond sad. Great read for anyone who is interested in historical stuff but doesn't want to read a big book.
vinceyface's review against another edition
4.0
I'm really glad I read this, the world of "Freak Shows" is both fascinating and a bit tragic. Despite being sold into the circus at such a young age, Schlitzie lived a remarkable life. However, reading this is often sad, realizing how terribly we treated those with deformities and mental health issues. A fascinating read, but I think it could have been trimmed down a little, by the end a lot of the different circuses seem to just run together and become repetitive to read about.
p0tat0's review against another edition
4.0
Given how little had been previously documented about Schlitzie's life, Griffith does an incredible job of conveying not only his humanity but the alarming contrast of the nurturing sideshow community with the cruelty of the outside world.