The Bullfighter Checks Her Make-Up

This collection of essays features profiles of diverse individuals, from a female matador to a successful clown, showcasing Susan Orlean's unique perspective and wit, reminiscent of her bestseller, The Orchid Thief.

In The Bullfighter Checks Her Make-Up, Susan Orlean presents a captivating collection of profiles that explore the lives of a diverse array of individuals. From Cristina Sanchez, Spain's first fully-qualified female matador, to Silly Billy, New York's most successful children's clown, Orlean delves into the unique stories of people who often go unnoticed. The book also features an African king who drives a taxi in New York and a champion show dog named Biff, whose resemblance to President Clinton adds a humorous twist to the narrative.

Orlean's writing shines as she seamlessly blends humor with insightful observations. Her ability to capture the quirks and eccentricities of her subjects makes each profile engaging and memorable. The author’s previous work, The Orchid Thief, showcased her talent for uncovering the bizarre and fascinating aspects of the world, and this collection continues that tradition. With a keen eye for detail and a witty narrative style, Orlean invites readers to see the extraordinary in the ordinary.

This collection is not just about famous personalities; it also highlights the lives of lesser-known individuals, such as Colin Duffy, a typical American boy, and the cult sixties girl group, the Shaggs. Orlean’s unique perspective and storytelling prowess make The Bullfighter Checks Her Make-Up a delightful exploration of the human experience, celebrating the diversity and richness of life through the lens of its most intriguing characters.