Leslie Ann Akin is a real clown. Really. She knows the art, she lives the art, she loves the art, she’s performed the art at the highest level, and she teaches and coaches and mentors the art. And she knows how to paint her lessons learned in such vivid colors, making her book, A Fool’s Guide to Clowning, pure gold for all clowns-in-progress, from beginning clowns – First of Mays – to those experienced in the ring, at the party, on the stage, and on hospital rounds.

This is a delightful, fun, and informative read. It’s the kind of book you’ll keep re-reading and highlighting and annotating and dog-earing mine for more depth, understanding, and fresh ideas.

The chapter on hospital clowning alone should be required reading and reference for all aspiring and practicing clown doctors; it’s pithy and perfect.

The quotes heading each chapter are inspired and inspiring. The anecdotes put you right in the middle of the action. The examples and scenarios are clear and easy to adapt to your own clowning. And the experiences she shares will make you a better, more complete clown who audiences will love, laugh with, and remember.

Get this amazing resource into your red nose library right away!

—Mike “Dr. Fun E. Bone” Bednarek