Circus Mirandus, by debut author Cassie Beasley, is a book about a boy, his dying grandfather, and a magic circus. But that’s just the surface.
This book, in my opinion, is really about faith.
Like most good books, Circus Mirandus can be enjoyed on multiple levels. And on the surface level, it’s a great story. Micah Tuttle has been raised by his grandfather, Ephraim. Now, he must face his grandfather impending death. Aunt Gertrudis, who is caring for her brother and Micah, is a bitter and mean-spirited woman. But Ephraim shares a secret with Micah. He’s sent a message to The Lightbender–a magician from the magical Circus Mirandus–who owes him a miracle. Gertrudis thinks this talk of magic is ridiculous and harmful for Micah. but Micah’s faith is unshakeable. Along with his new friend Jenny Mendoza–a brainiac who is all fact, no faith–Micah won’t rest until The Lighbender grants his grandfather’s wish–a wish that Micah is certain could only mean his healing.
Beasley does a wonderful job drawing the reader into Micah’s world. His relationship with his grandfather is so tender. Micah’s own dreams, longings, and shortcomings ring so true. And Circus Mirandus’s magic does not disappoint.
What I love about Circus Mirandus
- Family–Micah and his grandfather clearly love each other. Micah respects his grandfather and trusts implicitly that he wouldn’t lie about Circus Mirandus being magic.
- Friendship–The friendship that Micah and Jenny develop is wonderful. Although they have very different outlooks, they learn to support and lean on each other. I also appreciate that there is no romantic involvement to their friendship.
- Faith–This is just my favorite aspect of this story. Circus Mirandus can only be seen by those who believe. Micah has plenty of opportunities to doubt, but he chooses to hold onto faith and hope for the circus and for his grandfather.
There is more to this story that I just can’t wait for you to experience yourself. I’d say this story is best suited for ages 9 – 12, but older kids may enjoy it as well. The print book is full of fun black and white illustrations, but the audiobook was simply wonderful.
If you enjoyed my podcast interview with Sarah Mackenzie about Fantasy, this is my newest recommendation!
I’ll add one little spoiler in the box below that some parents may want to read.
Spoiler
Have you read Circus Mirandus? Or would you like to recommend another book? I’d love to read your thoughts in the comments!
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Sounds intriguing! I read the first couple of chapters via Amazon’s book preview (the cheater’s digital litmus test), and put it at the top of my TBR list. The writing seems lively, and character development promising. Contrasting most old ladies, who are “basically chocolate cakes and sweaters on the inside” with his Aunt Gertrudis, who is “probably cough syrup [on the inside]” is a great picture sketch, and made me chuckle. But it’s idea of believing in something before seeing it that makes me want to read the book; fantasy with truth behind it is difficult to find these days. It also brings to mind George MacDonald’s gem The Princess and the Goblin, another tale beautifully woven through with the theme of faith–have you read that one?
Can’t wait till my library hold arrives. Thanks for the recommendation.
Yes, I have read The Princess and the Goblin! My favorite George MacDonald book is At the Back of the North Wind. It is simply beautiful, and I think you’d enjoy it. I hope you enjoy Circus Mirandus as much as I did 🙂
I agree, At the Back of the North Wind is beautiful too, as are his short stories (many of which are sprinkled throughout his other works–if I’m not mistaken, there are some North Wind). MacDonald is best in his fantasy works in general, especially for children.
I’ll try to wait patiently for Circus Mirandus. Fortunately, there is never a shortage of good books to be read; my stack just grows and grows. 🙂