An “evocative and entertaining” biography of the nineteenth century circus performer who became a global phenomenon (Neil Harris, author of Humbug). When P. T. Barnum met twenty-five-inch-tall Charles Stratton at a Bridgeport, Connecticut hotel in 1843, one of the most important partnerships in entertainment history was born. With Barnum’s promotional skills and the miniature Stratton’s comedic talents, they charmed a Who’s Who of the nineteenth century, from Queen Victoria to Charles Dickens to Abraham Lincoln. Adored worldwide as “General Tom Thumb,” Stratton played to sold-out shows for almost forty years. From his days as a precocious child star to his tragic early death, Becoming Tom Thumb tells the full story of this iconic figure for the first time. It details his triumphs on the New York stage, his epic celebrity wedding, and his around-the-world tour, drawing on newly available primary sources and interviews. From the mansions of Paris to the deserts of Australia, Stratton’s unique brand of Yankee comedy not only earned him the accolades of millions of fans, it helped move little people out of the side show and into the limelight.

A boy the size of his father's thumb has a series of adventures, including stopping a pair of thieves, being swallowed by a cow, and tricking a wolf into bringing him back home.

Read Along or Enhanced eBook: An easy format retelling of the classic fairy tale, Tom Thumb and the tiny boy's big adventures. Newly re-illustrated with a fresh and modern look, these classic readers foster independent reading and comprehension. Using high frequency words and repetition, readers gain confidence while enjoying classic fairy tales and folklore stories. Educator resources include reading reinforcement activities and a word list in the back. Activities focus on foundational, language and reading skills. Sections include phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and reading comprehension. Teacher notes available on website.