But when he sticks to his own subject, Mr. Wall allows readers to share his wonder at the circus world's arcane jargon: a "board muffin" (assistant standing on the top perch to help the trapeze artist) uses a "noodle" (hooked staff) to catch the trapeze.

WSJ: Book Review: The Ordinary Acrobat

An ambitious revival that fuses the famous Bob Fosse choreography with the daring physical world of circus is in previews at the American Repertory Theater in Cambridge, Mass.

NPR: 'Pippin' Is Back, And Surrounded By Broadway Buzz

They were exhibited in circus side shows around the world before settling in the United States and marrying two sisters.

BBC: NEWS | Health | Medical notes | Conjoined twins