In 1741, a young three-ton Indian rhinoceros called Clara was brought to Europe where she was displayed before everyone from peasants to princes. In the 17 years she toured the Continent (in an enormous coach drawn by eight horses) she became a favorite of Frederick the Great and Louis XV, and an inspiration for poems, fashions, and trinkets. Clara, alas, developed an uncommon fondness for beer and tobacco. Glynis Ridley's delightful book brings to sparkling life the story of this most singular of celebrities.