The Lion Tamer’s Assistant

Nothing exciting ever happens in the town of Kraaipan. Especially not to Martjie, who lives on a farm nearby. But when Bertus Botha dares Martjie to climb on the Mafikeng train and peep inside one of the crates to see what’s inside, it’s the beginning of a huge adventure. Martjie ends up in one of the carriages – with a circus lion! Soon, she gets to know the circus owners, Mister and Madam Pagel, and the other performers at the famous Pagel’s Circus. Mister Pagel is the world’s strongest man and sticks his head inside the lion’s jaws during every performance. Madame Pagel drives to the bank with a lion sitting next to her in the car. And plain old Martjie knows her life will never be the same again. This exciting novel is loosely based on the history of the Pagel Circus, which was known in every South African city and town in the previous century. A wonderful story full of action, adventure ... and the timeless magic of circus life.