Lions 'n' tigers 'n' everything

by Courtney Ryley Cooper

"Lions 'n' Tigers 'n' Everything" by Courtney Ryley Cooper is a nonfiction work written in the early 20th century. This book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of circuses, particularly focusing on the care, training, and life of the animals involved. It explores the relationships between trainers and the animals as well as the often misunderstood practices that contribute to the circus experience that audiences enjoy. The opening of the work serves as an introduction to the author's experiences and insights, particularly highlighting the animal training processes in modern circuses compared to past practices. The author shares his first encounter in the training den, revealing that the animals are treated with respect and care, rather than through fear and brutality as he initially believed. Emphasizing a shift toward humane training methods, he discusses how contemporary trainers foster companionship and reward-based learning, which ultimately shapes the relationship between humans and animals within the circus context.