Best Circus Books: 20 Key Titles

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The Night Circus

by Erin Morgenstern

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern is a mesmerizing tale that transports readers into a world of enchantment and wonder. This captivating book about a circus, known as Le Cirque des Rêves, is not your typical circus. Instead of wild animals and death-defying stunts, this circus is a place of magic and mystery, where illusionists and performers showcase their extraordinary talents under the shroud of nightfall.

The story follows two young illusionists, Celia and Marco, who are bound in a magical competition that spans decades. Their rivalry unfolds within the confines of the enchanting circus, and their performances become increasingly entwined with each other’s fate. As their competition intensifies, a deep and forbidden love blossoms between them, adding a layer of romance to the already captivating tale.

With its lush and vivid descriptions, The Night Circus is a spellbinding circus book that will transport readers to a world of wonder and magic, leaving them utterly captivated by the ethereal beauty of the enchanting Le Cirque des Rêves.

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Water for Elephants

by Sara Gruen

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen is a captivating book about circus life in the 1930s. The story follows Jacob Jankowski, a young man who, after a family tragedy, finds himself joining a traveling circus as a veterinarian. As he navigates the colorful and sometimes dangerous world of the circus, Jacob becomes entangled in a forbidden romance with the beautiful equestrian Marlena. Their love affair is set against the backdrop of the circus’s harsh realities, including animal cruelty and the brutal behavior of the circus’s owner, August. Gruen’s vivid descriptions bring the world of the big top to life, from the enchanting performances under the big tent to the gritty behind-the-scenes drama. Water for Elephants is a mesmerizing tale of love, danger, and the power of the human spirit, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a thrilling and emotional circus book.

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Something Wicked This Way Comes

by Ray Bradbury

Something Wicked This Way Comes by Ray Bradbury is a captivating and eerie tale that takes readers on a thrilling journey into the world of a malevolent carnival. Set in a small town, the story follows two young boys, Will and Jim, as they encounter the ominous and mysterious Mr. Dark and his sinister traveling circus. As the boys become entangled in a web of dark magic and twisted desires, they must confront their deepest fears and summon the courage to battle the forces of evil that threaten their town.

Bradbury’s masterful storytelling and vivid imagery bring the eerie atmosphere of the circus to life, creating a sense of foreboding and unease that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. Something Wicked This Way Comes is a haunting and atmospheric exploration of the power of fear and the resilience of the human spirit, making it a must-read for anyone who enjoys a spine-tingling circus book.

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The Circus of Dr. Lao

by Charles G. Finney

The Circus of Dr. Lao is a captivating and enchanting book on circus written by Charles G. Finney. The story revolves around the arrival of Dr. Lao’s extraordinary circus in the quiet town of Abalone. As the townspeople become enthralled by the various wonders and oddities within the circus, they also come face to face with their own inner desires and fears. Dr. Lao’s circus is not just a spectacle of fantastic creatures and magical acts, but also a mirror reflecting the human condition.

The book about circus is a rich tapestry of fantasy, satire, and social commentary, exploring themes of human nature, morality, and the nature of reality. Finney’s vivid and imaginative storytelling brings the circus to life in all its mesmerizing glory, while also delving into the complexities of the human psyche. The Circus of Dr. Lao is a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers with its spellbinding narrative and thought-provoking themes.

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The Electric Michelangelo

by Sarah Hall

The Electric Michelangelo by Sarah Hall is a mesmerizing book about circus that takes you on a journey through the world of tattooing and the vibrant atmosphere of the carnival. Set in the early 20th century, the story follows the life of Cy Parks, a talented tattoo artist who grows up in a seaside town and later joins a traveling circus.

As Cy navigates the colorful and eccentric characters of the circus, he becomes known for his extraordinary skills and is soon dubbed “The Electric Michelangelo.” The novel delves into the artistry and symbolism of tattooing, exploring the intimate connection between the artist and their canvas.

With beautiful prose and vivid imagery, Sarah Hall paints a captivating portrait of a world filled with wonder, desire, and the pursuit of self-expression. The Electric Michelangelo is a compelling and evocative circus book that will transport readers to a place where the boundaries between art and reality blur, and the magic of the circus comes to life.

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The Book of Speculation

by Erika Swyler

The Book of Speculation by Erika Swyler is a mesmerizing tale that weaves together the mysteries of a family’s dark past and the enchanting world of a circus. The story follows a librarian named Simon, who receives a mysterious book that holds a dark secret: it seems to foretell the deaths of the women in his family. As he delves into this eerie inheritance, he uncovers a connection to a traveling circus that brings danger and enchantment into his life.

This book about a circus is a captivating blend of magic, folklore, and family drama, as it transports readers to a world of wonder and danger. Swyler’s lyrical prose and intricate storytelling create a sense of enchantment that will keep readers spellbound until the very last page. The Book of Speculation is a unique and compelling tale that will appeal to fans of magical realism and historical fiction, as it explores the enduring power of family bonds and the mysteries of fate.

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The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb

by Melanie Benjamin

The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb by Melanie Benjamin is a captivating book on circus that transports readers back to the enchanting world of the 19th-century American circus. This historical fiction novel follows the remarkable life of Mercy Lavinia Warren Bump, known as Mrs. Tom Thumb, who was a petite woman with extraordinary talents and ambitions. From her humble beginnings to her rise to fame as a beloved performer in the circus, readers will be enthralled by Mercy’s resilience, strength, and determination in the face of societal expectations and challenges.

As the circus book unfolds, readers will be immersed in the vivid, colorful world of the big top, where larger-than-life characters and dazzling spectacles come to life. Through Benjamin’s rich storytelling, the reader is transported to a time when the circus was the epitome of entertainment and wonder. The Autobiography of Mrs. Tom Thumb is a captivating and inspiring tale of courage, love, and the pursuit of dreams against all odds.

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The Gracekeepers

by Kirsty Logan

The Gracekeepers by Kirsty Logan is a captivating and enchanting book about a world filled with wonder and mystery. Set in a dystopian world where land is scarce and most of the population lives on water, the story revolves around two young women from vastly different backgrounds. One is a gracekeeper, responsible for tending the sea-burials, while the other is a circus performer. As their paths intertwine, they are faced with a series of challenges that test their resilience and strength.

This beautifully written novel explores themes of love, loss, and the search for belonging, all set against the backdrop of a mesmerizing circus. The author’s lyrical prose and vivid imagery bring to life a world that is both haunting and mesmerizing. The Gracekeepers is a book about circus that will transport readers to a world unlike any other, where the line between reality and fantasy is delightfully blurred. It is a must-read for anyone who enjoys tales of adventure, magic, and the enduring power of the human spirit.

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The Museum of Extraordinary Things

by Alice Hoffman

The Museum of Extraordinary Things by Alice Hoffman is a captivating novel set in early 20th century New York City. This mesmerizing book on circus weaves together the lives of two extraordinary individuals: Coralie, the daughter of the enigmatic museum proprietor, and Eddie, a young photographer with a tragic past. As the city is thrown into chaos by the infamous Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, these two characters find themselves drawn together in a world of wonder and danger.

Hoffman’s rich prose and vivid storytelling bring to life the world of the museum, a place filled with oddities and wonders that mesmerize the public. The book about circus is a tale of love, mystery, and the power of the human spirit, set against the backdrop of a city on the brink of change. The Museum of Extraordinary Things is a mesmerizing circus book that will transport readers to a world of magic and marvel, where anything is possible.

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The Flying Circus

by Susan Crandall

The Flying Circus by Susan Crandall is a captivating novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the world of a traveling airshow in the 1920s. This exhilarating book about circus life follows the story of a feisty young pilot, Henry, who dreams of becoming a barnstormer in the famous Flying Circus. Alongside him is a spirited wing walker, Cora, who is determined to prove herself in a male-dominated industry. As they navigate the challenges of the airshow circuit, they form an unlikely bond and discover the true meaning of courage, love, and friendship. Filled with heart-stopping aerial stunts, unexpected twists, and a touch of romance, this circus book is a mesmerizing tale of adventure and bravery that will keep readers on the edge of their seats. The Flying Circus is a must-read for anyone who loves historical fiction, aviation, and the enchanting world of the big top.

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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 and harrowing account of the tragic Hartford circus fire of 1944. This book delves into the heart-wrenching events of that fateful day, recounting the chaos and devastation that unfolded under the big top. O’Nan meticulously reconstructs the sequence of events leading up to the fire and its aftermath, painting a vivid and haunting picture of the human toll and the community’s response.

Through meticulous research and powerful storytelling, O’Nan brings to life the stories of the individuals affected by the fire, from the performers and circus workers to the spectators caught in the blaze. The Circus Fire is a compelling and emotional exploration of a dark moment in American history, offering a poignant tribute to the lives lost and the resilience of those who survived. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in historical tragedies or seeking a deeper understanding of the human experience in the face of disaster.

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The Circus in Winter

by Cathy Day

The Circus in Winter by Cathy Day is a captivating book about the enchanting world of the big top. Set in a small town in Indiana, this book weaves together a series of interconnected stories that span decades, painting a vivid picture of the circus’s impact on the lives of the townspeople. Each chapter introduces a new character whose life is touched by the magic and mystery of the circus, creating a rich tapestry of human emotion, ambition, and love against the backdrop of the mesmerizing world of acrobats, clowns, and wild animals.

Through Day’s lyrical prose, readers are transported to a world where the line between reality and fantasy blurs, and the circus becomes a metaphor for life’s unpredictable twists and turns. This book on circus is a celebration of the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring power of dreams, making it a must-read for anyone who is captivated by the allure of the big top. Get ready to be mesmerized by this extraordinary circus book!

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The Watermelon King

by Daniel Wallace

The Watermelon King by Daniel Wallace is a captivating tale that takes readers on a whimsical journey through the world of the big top. This enchanting novel tells the story of Augustus Shaw, a man who unexpectedly becomes the owner of a struggling circus. As he navigates the challenges of running the circus, Augustus discovers the power of love, friendship, and the magic of the circus.

With its charming storytelling and vivid imagery, The Watermelon King is a delightful book about circus that will transport readers to a world filled with wonder and possibility. Daniel Wallace’s masterful prose and imaginative storytelling bring the colorful characters and vibrant setting of the circus to life, creating a truly enchanting reading experience.

Whether you’re a fan of circus literature or simply love a heartwarming and magical story, The Watermelon King is a must-read. Dive into this captivating circus book and lose yourself in the enchanting world of the big top.

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The Circus Ship

by Chris Van Dusen

The Circus Ship by Chris Van Dusen is a captivating and whimsical picture book that tells the thrilling tale of a circus ship that gets shipwrecked off the coast of Maine. The colorful and lively illustrations bring to life the story of the circus animals escaping the sinking ship and finding their way to a nearby island. The townspeople are initially frightened by the wild animals, but soon they realize that these creatures are friendly and in need of help. As the animals integrate into the community, the greedy circus owner comes looking for them. The townspeople come together to outwit the circus owner and protect their new friends. This heartwarming and adventurous story is filled with humor, excitement, and a powerful message about compassion and friendship. The Circus Ship is a delightful and unforgettable circus book that will captivate readers of all ages with its charming storyline and enchanting illustrations.

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The Circus of Adventure

by Enid Blyton

The Circus of Adventure is a thrilling and captivating book about a group of children who find themselves caught up in a daring adventure at a circus. Enid Blyton weaves a tale full of mystery, excitement, and daring escapades as the children become embroiled in a plot to steal the circus’s performing animals.

Readers will be drawn into the world of the circus as they follow the children’s adventures, including encounters with acrobats, clowns, and a mysterious fortune-teller. The book is filled with suspense and excitement as the children work together to solve the mystery and save the animals from danger.

With vivid descriptions and engaging characters, The Circus of Adventure is a must-read for anyone who loves a thrilling circus story. Enid Blyton’s storytelling prowess shines through as she creates a world that is both magical and full of danger, making this book a true page-turner for readers of all ages.

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The Circus of Thieves and the Raffle of Doom

by William Sutcliffe

The Circus of Thieves and the Raffle of Doom is a thrilling circus book that takes readers on a wild adventure. Written by William Sutcliffe, this book is full of excitement, mystery, and daring escapades. The story follows a young girl named Hannah who stumbles upon a circus in the middle of the night. As she becomes intertwined with the circus and its eccentric characters, she uncovers a sinister plot that could spell disaster for everyone involved. With its vivid descriptions and fast-paced action, this book about circus is sure to captivate readers of all ages. Join Hannah as she navigates the twists and turns of the circus world, where danger and excitement go hand in hand. The Circus of Thieves and the Raffle of Doom is a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure and enjoys the thrill of the unknown.

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Geek Love

by Katherine Dunn

Geek Love by Katherine Dunn is a captivating and twisted book about a circus family unlike any other. This dark and compelling novel delves into the lives of the Binewski family, who run their own traveling carnival. What sets them apart is their deliberate use of experimental drugs and radioactive materials to produce offspring with unique physical abnormalities.

The story is narrated by Oly, one of the Binewski children, who reflects on her family’s unconventional and disturbing upbringing. As the plot unfolds, Dunn explores themes of identity, family dynamics, and the consequences of human manipulation.

Geek Love is a thought-provoking and unsettling book on circus, filled with complex characters and a plot that will keep readers engrossed from start to finish. Dunn’s writing is both lyrical and raw, painting a vivid picture of the bizarre and mesmerizing world of the carnival. This circus book is a must-read for those who enjoy stories that push the boundaries of traditional storytelling.

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The Flying Circus of Physics

by Jearl Walker

The Flying Circus of Physics by Jearl Walker is a captivating book that takes readers on a thrilling journey through the world of science with a circus-themed twist. This unique and entertaining book about physics is filled with mind-boggling and curious questions and answers that will leave readers in awe. With its fascinating demonstrations and explanations, this book on circus showcases the wonders of physics in a way that is both educational and exhilarating.

Readers will be amazed by the incredible phenomena and peculiar occurrences that the author explores, and will find themselves enthralled by the seemingly magical aspects of the natural world. The Flying Circus of Physics is the perfect blend of education and entertainment, offering a fun and engaging way to learn about the laws of physics while enjoying the excitement of a circus.

Whether you’re a science enthusiast or simply curious about the world around you, this circus book is sure to captivate and inspire readers of all ages.

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The Circus of Lost Souls

by Riley J. Ford

The Circus of Lost Souls by Riley J. Ford is a captivating book about a mysterious carnival that appears out of nowhere, promising to grant visitors their deepest desires. However, as the protagonist, a young woman named Lila, soon discovers, this circus is not what it seems. Filled with dark secrets and enigmatic performers, the book on circus takes readers on a thrilling and sinister journey through the eerie world of the carnival. As Lila delves deeper into the circus’s twisted reality, she must confront her own inner demons and unravel the sinister forces at play. With its atmospheric setting and captivating characters, The Circus of Lost Souls is a mesmerizing circus book that will keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very last page.

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The Circus of Stolen Dreams

by Lorelei Savaryn

The Circus of Stolen Dreams by Lorelei Savaryn is a captivating middle-grade fantasy novel that takes readers on a thrilling journey through a magical world filled with wonder and mystery. This enchanting book on circus tells the story of 12-year-old Anda, who discovers a mysterious circus in the woods that appears and disappears at will. As she delves deeper into the secrets of the circus, she uncovers a world of stolen dreams and must confront the darkness that threatens to consume it. With its vivid imagery and imaginative storytelling, this circus book transports readers to a world where anything is possible and where dreams hold the power to change everything. The Circus of Stolen Dreams is a mesmerizing tale of courage, friendship, and the magic of believing in oneself, making it a must-read for anyone who loves a good adventure. Get ready to be spellbound by this captivating book about circus!