The Circus Ship

When a circus ship runs aground off the rocky coast of Maine, something magical happens. The poor animals find themselves stranded in a wary seaside town—but these aren’t ordinary creatures. With kind hearts and surprising courage, they soon win over the locals, blending so seamlessly into village life that you’d think they’d always belonged there.

Chris Van Dusen, a celebrated Maine author and illustrator, brings this delightful tale to life with brilliantly caricatured illustrations that evoke the charm of early nineteenth-century New England. His buoyant, sprightly rhymes dance across each page, making this a perfect read-aloud for young listeners who love the rhythm of language.

But when the greedy circus owner returns to reclaim his animals, the entire community—human and critter alike—must band together to outsmart the bloated blowhard. It’s a story about the bonds we form when we open our hearts to the unexpected, and the strength we find in standing together.

Kirkus Reviews gave this heartwarming adventure a starred review, praising it as having “pictures that are the true stunners.” And for eagle-eyed readers? There’s a hidden-pictures spread tucked inside that will keep kids (and adults) searching for delightful details long after the story ends.

Perfect for children who love animals, adventure, and stories where kindness wins the day. A wonderful addition to any young reader’s library—and a beautiful celebration of Maine’s coastal spirit.

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