
Reach for this book when your child feels like an outsider or struggles with the pressure to be 'proper' and 'ordinary.' It is a vibrant antidote for the child who dreams big, loves the spotlight, or needs to see that being different is a superpower. The story follows Adelaide Herrmann, a woman who broke every Victorian rule to become the 'Queen of Magic' in an era when women were barely allowed on stage. Through Addie's journey from a rebellious young dancer to a world-famous magician, children explore themes of self-confidence, resilience, and the courage to reinvent oneself after loss. It is a visually stunning biography that celebrates female agency and the thrill of a life lived with purpose. While it touches on the death of her husband, the focus remains on Addie's determination to carry on his legacy while cementing her own. It is a perfect choice for parents wanting to inspire independence and a love for history.
Depicts dangerous-looking magic tricks, including the 'bullet catch' and 'cremation' illusions.
The book addresses the death of Addie's husband, Alexander. The approach is direct and secular, focusing on Addie's grief and the practical reality of her losing her partner and her career simultaneously. The resolution is highly hopeful and empowering, as she chooses to continue the work they loved.
A child in second or third grade who has a 'big' personality, loves performing, or has recently been told they are being 'too much.' It is also excellent for a student interested in the history of performance art or female pioneers.
Read the author's note at the end to provide context on which magic tricks were real and how they were performed safely. The book can be read cold, but discussing the Victorian setting helps explain why Addie's choices were so scandalous. A child expressing frustration with gender roles or feeling like they have to hide their talents to fit in at school.
Younger children (6-7) will be captivated by the 'magic' and the vibrant illustrations. Older children (8-10) will better grasp the historical context of women's rights and the resilience required for Addie to perform solo after her husband's death.
Unlike many biographies of the era that focus on male figures like Houdini, this book centers a woman's technical skill and business savvy in the world of illusion, using a whimsical, theatrical visual style that mirrors the subject's life.
This biography chronicles the life of Adelaide Herrmann, starting with her childhood desire for adventure in a restrictive Victorian society. After becoming a professional dancer, she marries the famous magician Alexander Herrmann. While she begins as his assistant, she eventually becomes a vital partner in the act. When Alexander dies unexpectedly, Addie refuses to let the show end. She takes over the lead role, performing daring feats like the 'bullet catch,' and earns her own title as the Queen of Magic.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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