An interesting perspective on The Great Clivette
Michael MacBride has pieced together the miraculous life and career of The Great Clivette. I always appreciate books that focus on historical accuracy. I find truth is stranger than fiction, and Clivette’s life is no exception. Using multiple sources, MacBride allows the listener to hear the man explain how he became The Great Clivette – a man that knew PT Barnum, Buffalo Bill, Mark Twain, and illusionist Harry Houdini.
I must admit, I wasn’t very familiar with Clivette’s story, but was impressed by the many skills he demonstrated. He was man that loved to read, and it appears he taught himself many marketable abilities. The man that was born Merton Clive Cook in Wyoming, developed the skills to do magic, juggle, throw knives, performs tricks on horseback, write, and draw. Clivette ran way to join the circus, then became a sketch artist, before becoming a Vaudeville performer.
Clivette memorized audiences with a vast array on talents including his brilliant mind tricks. His touring group dazzled fans all over the world, includes stops in China, Japan, Russia, and Europe. In England, he even performed for Queen Victoria and Edward VII.
MacBride’s phenomenal research allows listeners to tap into Clivette’s mind, as he shares his perspectives on art, his writings, politics, family, and quirks he found with some of his fans. “The Great Clivette” is unique and entertaining! Richard Henzel provides stimulating narration.
By: Michael MacBride
Narrated by: Richard Henzel
Length: 3 hrs and 59 mins
Release date: 02-21-24
Publisher: Salty Books Publishing Company, LLC