Sunday, March 26, 2017

Piper Morgan Joins the Circus by Stephanie Faris -- OPTIONAL

Faris, Stephanie Piper Morgan Joins the Circus, illustrated by Lucy Fleming. CHAPTER BOOK. Aladdin (Simon & Schuster), 2016. $5.99. Content: G.

Eight-year-old Piper Morgan experiences a few coveted weeks at the circus while her mom works a temp job there. But how can Piper fulfill her dream of becoming a star performer if she keeps messing up the show?

The colorful cover and high-interest topic are likely to attract readers, and many will enjoy Piper's matter-of-fact voice. She does come across as rather self-centered much of the time, however, and it is difficult to truly have a stake in whether or not she finds lasting friendships because her mother's temporary position means they would have to move on soon anyway. Those who are easily embarrassed for characters may find some of Piper's in-ring mess-ups a bit painful. (I know I did.) Others may just find them entertaining and will appreciate perhaps that she eventually learns how to make the show go on despite disasters.

EL (K-3) -- OPTIONAL. Reviewed by Sydney G., K-6 Library Media Specialist

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