FICTION

Not My Circus

by Janet Sumner Johnson (text) & illus. by Patrick Corrigan
Capstone. Jan. 2024. 32p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9781684466221.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 3–The silliness of the circus meets the need for responsibility in this new book from Johnson. Olivia is given the task of bringing home eggs from the market, but buys a circus instead. When she returns home with monkeys, elephants, lions, and more, her mother tells her she needs to do something about the mess and the manners of the animals. Olivia tries to return the circus to the original owner, but is met each time with “Not My Circus.” Olivia learns to train the animals and eventually creates a business helping out members of her community. Young readers will love the silly idioms that complement the lighthearted feel. The bright colors of the illustrations add to the positive outlook and perception of Olivia never giving up on her duty.
VERDICT The message of finding a solution and never giving up is clear; decisions have consequences, but negative or positive, readers will know they can work through it.
Reviewed by Elizabeth Libberton , Jan 01, 2024

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