Are you ready to step into the magical and mesmerizing world of the circus? Whether you’re a fan of the big top, acrobatics, or clowning around, there’s a book on circus that’s sure to captivate you. From historical accounts to fictional tales, these circus books bring to life the thrill and wonder of the circus. Join us as we explore the 20 best books about circus that will transport you under the dazzling lights and into the heart of the circus world.
The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern is a captivating book about a mysterious and enchanting circus. Set in the 19th century, the story follows two young illusionists, Marco and Celia, who are bound in a magical competition by their mentors. The circus, Le Cirque des Rêves, appears without warning, open only at night, and is filled with breathtaking wonders and enchanting performances. As the competition unfolds, the circus becomes the stage for their magical duel, drawing in unsuspecting visitors who become enthralled by the extraordinary sights and experiences. Amidst the dazzling black and white tents, a romantic and dangerous love story unfolds, adding an emotional depth to the fantastical setting. Morgenstern’s rich and lyrical prose weaves a spellbinding tale of love, magic, and the extraordinary world of the circus.
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen is a captivating book about circus life in the 1930s. The story follows Jacob Jankowski, a young veterinary student who finds himself homeless and penniless after a family tragedy. He stumbles upon a job as a veterinarian for a traveling circus, where he becomes entangled in a world of danger, romance, and unexpected friendships. Gruen’s vivid storytelling brings the colorful characters and thrilling performances of the circus to life, while also delving into the darker side of the industry. With its rich historical detail and compelling narrative, Water for Elephants is a mesmerizing circus book that will transport readers to a bygone era of big top spectacles and daring feats.
Something Wicked This Way Comes is a mesmerizing tale that weaves a spellbinding world of mystery and magic. Set in a small town, this book follows the adventures of two young boys who encounter a dark and sinister circus that arrives in the dead of night. As the boys delve deeper into the secrets of the carnival, they uncover its eerie and malevolent nature. Ray Bradbury‘s evocative prose brings to life the haunting atmosphere of the circus, filled with enchanting yet chilling spectacles. This captivating circus book explores themes of temptation, fear, and the battle between good and evil. With its vivid imagery and compelling storytelling, Something Wicked This Way Comes is a must-read for anyone who enjoys tales of mystery and the supernatural.
The Circus of Dr. Lao is a captivating and imaginative book about a mysterious circus that appears in the small town of Abalone, Arizona. Written by Charles G. Finney, this enchanting circus book takes readers on a journey through the bizarre and magical world of Dr. Lao’s circus. As the townspeople encounter the circus’s strange and wondrous inhabitants, they are forced to confront their own fears, desires, and prejudices. Through a series of surreal and thought-provoking events, the book explores themes of human nature, morality, and the power of imagination. With its rich storytelling and vivid imagery, The Circus of Dr. Lao is a mesmerizing read that will leave readers spellbound by its fantastical charm and profound insights.
The Electric Michelangelo by Sarah Hall is a mesmerizing book about circus that takes readers on a journey through the world of tattoo artistry and the circus in early 20th century America. The story follows Cyril, a talented tattoo artist who finds himself working in the vibrant and surreal world of the circus. As he navigates the complex relationships and dynamics within the circus community, Cyril’s passion for his craft and the circus itself shines through. Hall’s vivid prose and richly detailed descriptions bring the circus to life, creating a captivating and immersive reading experience. The Electric Michelangelo is a beautifully written and evocative book on circus that explores themes of art, identity, and the unconventional beauty found within the world of the circus.
The Book of Speculation by Erika Swyler is a captivating tale that weaves together the past and present through a mysterious and ancient book. The story follows a librarian named Simon who receives a mysterious old book that seems to hold a connection to his family’s tragic history. As he delves into the book’s secrets, he discovers a haunting and magical tale about a traveling circus, mermaids, and a curse that has plagued his family for generations. As Simon races to unravel the book’s mysteries, he uncovers dark family secrets and a connection to a mesmerizing circus performer. This mesmerizing novel is a mesmerizing blend of mystery, family drama, and the enchanting world of a circus. Swyler’s lush and lyrical prose will transport readers into a world of wonder and intrigue, making The Book of Speculation a must-read for anyone who loves a good book about circus.
The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb by Melanie Benjamin is a captivating and immersive novel that delves into the extraordinary life of Lavinia Warren, a remarkable woman who rose to fame as a diminutive star in the 19th century circus world. This compelling book on circus transports readers to the dazzling and often tumultuous world of the big top, offering a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes drama and spectacle of circus life. Through vivid storytelling and meticulous historical detail, Benjamin brings Lavinia’s remarkable journey to life, chronicling her triumphs, challenges, and enduring legacy. Filled with intrigue, adventure, and the timeless allure of the circus, this book about circus is a must-read for anyone captivated by the magic and mystique of the circus world.
The Gracekeepers by Kirsty Logan is a captivating book about a world divided between landlockers and damplings, set in a post-apocalyptic world where the sea levels have risen and only a few islands remain. The story follows the lives of two women, North and Callanish, as they navigate a world filled with prejudice and longing for freedom. North is a performer in a traveling circus, while Callanish is a gracekeeper, responsible for performing burials at sea. As their paths intertwine, they must confront their own desires and the societal norms that confine them. The novel explores themes of identity, freedom, and the search for belonging, all set against the backdrop of a beautifully imagined world. This enchanting and lyrical circus book will transport readers to a world filled with magic, love, and the longing for connection.
The Museum of Extraordinary Things by Alice Hoffman is a captivating novel set in early 20th century New York. This mesmerizing book on circus weaves together the stories of Coralie, the daughter of a sinister circus owner, and Eddie, a young photographer. As they navigate the bustling city and its dark underbelly, their paths intertwine in unexpected ways. The novel paints a vivid picture of a bygone era, complete with sideshows, oddities, and the allure of the circus. Hoffman’s exquisite prose and richly drawn characters make this book about circus a spellbinding read, filled with mystery, romance, and the magic of the extraordinary. It’s a must-read for anyone who loves a mesmerizing story set against the backdrop of a vibrant and mysterious world.
The Flying Circus by Susan Crandall is a captivating novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the world of aviation and entertainment in the 1920s. The story follows a young pilot, a talented mechanic, and a fearless young woman as they come together to form a daring flying circus. As they navigate the challenges of the era, including prohibition and the aftermath of World War I, they also find themselves caught up in a web of secrets and danger. This book about circus is filled with adventure, romance, and the exhilarating spectacle of early aviation. Crandall’s vivid storytelling brings to life the excitement and danger of the daring aerial stunts, making The Flying Circus a must-read for anyone who enjoys a captivating historical novel with a touch of romance and a whole lot of heart.
The Circus Fire: A True Story of an American Tragedy
by Stewart O’Nan
The Circus Fire: A True Story of an American Tragedy by Stewart O’Nan is a gripping non-fiction book about a devastating event that took place in Hartford, Connecticut in 1944. This compelling book recounts the tragic fire that broke out during a performance of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus, resulting in the deaths of 167 people and injuring hundreds more. O’Nan meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to the fire, the chaos and heroism that ensued, and the aftermath of the disaster. Through detailed research and vivid storytelling, the author brings to life the harrowing experiences of the victims, the bravery of the first responders, and the impact of the tragedy on the community. The Circus Fire is a powerful and poignant exploration of a dark moment in American history, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a compelling circus book.
The Circus in Winter by Cathy Day is a captivating book about the fascinating world of the big top. Set in a small Indiana town, this novel weaves together the stories of the performers, workers, and locals whose lives are intertwined with the circus. Through a series of interconnected short stories, Day brings to life the excitement, drama, and heartbreak of the circus world, drawing readers into a world of wonder and spectacle. With vivid and evocative prose, the book immerses readers in the sights, sounds, and emotions of the circus, offering a unique and mesmerizing glimpse into this captivating and enigmatic world. Whether you’re a fan of the circus, or simply love a good story, this book about the circus is sure to captivate and enchant you.
The Watermelon King by Daniel Wallace is a captivating circus book that tells the story of a young boy named Thomas. After his father is killed in a tragic accident, Thomas is taken in by a traveling circus. As he grows up within the circus community, he becomes enamored with the enigmatic Watermelon King, a mysterious performer who seems to hold the key to Thomas’ past and future. The novel weaves together themes of love, loss, and the magic of the circus, creating a mesmerizing tale that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. With beautiful prose and a unique storytelling style, The Watermelon King is a poignant and unforgettable exploration of the circus world and the power of human connection.
The Circus Ship by Chris Van Dusen is a delightful and whimsical picture book about a circus ship that meets an unexpected fate. When a ship carrying a menagerie of circus animals sinks off the coast of Maine, the animals manage to swim to shore and find refuge in a small, sleepy town. The townspeople are initially wary of the unusual visitors, but they soon come to appreciate the animals’ unique talents and endearing personalities. However, the greedy circus owner arrives to claim his lost animals, and the townspeople must come together to outsmart him and protect their newfound friends. With charming rhymes and vibrant illustrations, this book about circus is a heartwarming tale of friendship, community, and the power of acceptance. Children and adults alike will be enchanted by the colorful characters and the lively, circus-themed setting.
The Circus of Adventure is an exhilarating book about a circus written by Enid Blyton. In this thrilling tale, a group of children stumbles upon a secret circus hidden deep in the mountains. As they explore the mysterious world of the circus, they encounter daring acrobats, mischievous clowns, and majestic animals. However, their adventure takes a dangerous turn when they uncover a plot to steal the circus’s prized possessions. With bravery and quick thinking, the children must work together to save the circus and its performers from harm. This action-packed book on circus is sure to captivate readers with its suspenseful plot and vivid descriptions of the enchanting circus setting. Join the children as they embark on a thrilling journey filled with mystery, friendship, and the magic of the circus.
The Circus of Thieves and the Raffle of Doom is a thrilling and hilarious circus book written by William Sutcliffe. The story is filled with adventure, danger, and a lot of laughter. When the notorious thief, Great Raymondo, kidnaps the Prime Minister’s daughter, Hannah, the circus performers must come together to rescue her and save the day. This book about circus is a rollercoaster ride of excitement as the performers face challenges and obstacles in their quest to defeat the evil Raymondo. With its fast-paced plot and colorful characters, The Circus of Thieves and the Raffle of Doom is a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure and a good laugh. Get ready to be swept away into the mesmerizing world of this captivating circus book.
Geek Love by Katherine Dunn is a dark and twisted circus book that delves into the bizarre world of the Binewski family. Born and bred for the spotlight, the family’s children are intentionally genetically modified to create a sideshow of oddities. As they grow up, the siblings grapple with their own unique abilities and struggles, while their parents exploit their differences for profit. The novel explores themes of identity, family, and the lengths people will go to in pursuit of success and acceptance. Dunn’s writing is both captivating and unsettling, drawing readers into a world that is simultaneously fascinating and disturbing. Geek Love is a thought-provoking and unforgettable read that challenges societal norms and leaves a lasting impression.
The Flying Circus of Physics by Jearl Walker is a captivating book that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the world of science and everyday phenomena. With the curiosity of a child at a circus, Walker explores the fascinating physics behind a myriad of perplexing and entertaining occurrences, from the peculiar behavior of spinning tops to the mind-boggling dynamics of bouncing balls. This delightful book about circus is filled with mind-bending experiments and real-life examples that will leave readers in awe of the wonders of the natural world. Whether you’re a science enthusiast or simply curious about the world around you, The Flying Circus of Physics is sure to entertain and enlighten, making it a must-read for anyone with a thirst for knowledge and a love of the extraordinary.
The Circus of Lost Souls by Riley J. Ford is a captivating book about a circus that takes readers on a thrilling journey into the mysterious and dark world of the circus. The story follows a young woman who stumbles upon the enigmatic Circus of Lost Souls, where she becomes entangled in a web of secrets, magic, and danger. As she delves deeper into the circus’s hidden secrets, she discovers that nothing is as it seems, and she must navigate through a labyrinth of illusions and deceit to uncover the truth. This book on circus is a spellbinding tale filled with suspense, intrigue, and the allure of the unknown, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys a good mystery set in the captivating world of the circus.
The Circus of Stolen Dreams is a captivating book about a circus that will transport readers to a magical world filled with wonder and mystery. Written by Lorelei Savaryn, this enchanting tale follows the adventures of a young girl named Andrea, who discovers a hidden circus in the woods that holds the key to her missing brother’s whereabouts. As she delves deeper into the secrets of the circus, Andrea must navigate through daring feats, peculiar performers, and a sinister ringmaster to unravel the truth. With its mesmerizing blend of whimsy and darkness, this circus book weaves a spellbinding narrative that will leave readers spellbound until the very last page. Join Andrea on her extraordinary journey into the heart of the Circus of Stolen Dreams and prepare to be dazzled by its spellbinding wonders.
Conclusion
Exploring the whimsical and captivating world of Circus through literature can be a thrilling adventure. The 20 best books about circus mentioned in this article offer a diverse range of stories that will transport readers to the enchanting and sometimes mysterious realm of the big top. Whether it’s the excitement of daring performers, the camaraderie of circus families, or the magic that surrounds it all, these books capture the essence of the circus in all its glory. Dive into these captivating reads and let the magic of the circus come alive on the pages.
Which Circus book is best?
The best book on Circus can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Circus?
For those looking to learn about Circus, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Circus are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Circus books of all time?
Choosing the best Circus books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include
