Circus Girl

by Tomek Bogacki

It was late spring. I remember the day very well. Strange sounds coming from outside woke me earlier than usual. I jumped out of bed and ran to the window. A colorful caravan of carriages was passing by. I spelled out the letters painted on the side: «C-I-R-C-U-S». The next day, the teacher introduced a new girl to the class. She would be going to school with them while the circus was in town. Her presence was exciting to all the children, but it was her kindness that opened doors for the two boys who sat nearest to her, and they began an unlikely friendship.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Fiction

32 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2001

Reviews

[Ms. B · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Other than simply calling the new girl 'Circus Girl' instead of by her first name, this is a cute story about how she helps two of her classmates, the narrator and Tim become friends.

[Kalesa Guy · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Circus Girl" is about two boys who form an unlikely friendship due to a girl who joined their class when her circus came to town. Through her kindness and willingness to included both of the boys, she helps them get to know each other and form a relationship that neither of them thought they would ever be in. This would be a great book to share with a class. A focus on being aware of others even if they are quiet or different can really make things better. Bogacki's paintings are beautiful and connect well with the story.

[Felicia Goodwin · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book because of the message that it sends children. It shows that we should treat all people with kindness and realize that everyone has something valuable to share. I think this book would be a good book to use as a read aloud because students could relate to the different characters.

[Morgen Shambaugh · Rating 3 out of 5]

When the outgoing circus girl comes to town, the boys in the class are fascinated by her involvement with the circus. Watching her and enjoying her performances brings two boys together, even though one of them is very shy. Eventually the circus girl leaves, but after the three of them have so much fun together, the two boys remain good friends.

[Janelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book reminds me of the saying that friends come into your life for "a reason, a season, or a lifetime." 'Circus girl' comes into this boy's life for a reason, and it beautifully illustrates how friendships can develop with unexpected people.

[Stacy Tippens · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful book about friendship and kindness. We must have read this 50 time while we had it checked out.

[Kristen Leininger]

Picture Book: This is a sweet story about a girl making a difference in the lives of others due to her ability to love and be accepting of people, even when no one else will.

[Christina · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great message in this book! It makes me, as an adult, think back on all of the strangest ways that I have made friends in the past.. you never know when one will pop up!

[Marissa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting artwork

[Jeani · Rating 3 out of 5]

I like that this is on point for discussing how people come and go from your life and even if they're there for a short time, they can change everything!