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In this book, Ian Starsmore
examines a variety of famous fairs from both the technical and the
entertainment angle taking us behind the glittering facade of
make-believe into a matter-of-fact world of which the vast
majority of visitors have no inkling: the world of those who
dedicate their lives to the organisation and smooth running of the
fair.
The book considers the origins
and evolution of the fair, then looks at the contemporary
travelling fair of the 1970s, showing what happens from the time
of its arrival at the fairground to its departure for the next
assignment. There follows a technical history of the rides from
1870 to the 1950s, a decade when many modern designs were
introduced. The fourth chapter is devoted to a discussion of
fairground equipment, and takes a look into the future. The final
chapter is an exploration of the essential nature of the
travelling fair, in which the author attempts to diagnose the
secret of its perennial success.
Condition:
Fine book in near fine dustjacket. Mark on front cover where
price label was. Author's name written on first page inside
front cover. Click on image above to see
close-up of cover. |
