Monday, December 16, 2019

Circus Mirandus by Cassie Beasley



What child has not been mesmerized by the charms of the circus?  Ephraim Tuttle was no exception. But Circus Mirandus was no ordinary circus. And Ephraim fell under its spell when he met the Lightbender. But that was years ago and Ephraim is now an old man with failing health. And he needs to call in a favor so that his grandson, Micah, won't be left alone. 

Gertrudis, Ephraim's sister,  is staying with the man and boy, but she is a bitter old spinster who lacks imagination or warmth. She rules the roost with an iron fist and Micah has to sneak around just to visit his ailing grandfather.

When a mysterious (talking!) bird arrives and seems to have business with Ephraim, Micah's world turns upside down He's heard all about Circus Mirandus from his granddad but he'd assumed it was all just fantasy. Suddenly, Micah realizes that it's going to be up to him to find the Lightbender in the hopes that he'll miraculously save his grandfather.

Helping Micah navigate that journey is a friend from school. Thrust together on a school project, Micah soon discovers that Jenny is a tried and true friend.  And while she may not believe all of Ephraim's stories, she does believe in Micah and sometimes that's all that is necessary to make dreams come true.

Circus Mirandus is one of the most delightful flights of fancy a child can experience. Woven throughout the story readers will find mystery and friendship, and the loyalty of a grandchild who would move heaven and earth to save his grandfather. Delight and wonder fill every page--I highly recommend reading Circus Mirandus as a family to share the wonder!

Disclaimer: A free digital copy of Circus Mirandus was made available through NetGalley for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.

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