A review by shannasbooksnhooks
The Circus Train by Amita Parikh

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

Though they ate the same food, slept in the same carriages, and enjoyed the same music, Lena's disability had taught her a harsh truth: she was different, and people didn't like different.
This book immediately climbed up to my favorites list (both for 2023 and in general). I was immersed in the story the entire time, and it was a beautifully woven tale of love and heartbreak during World War II. Everything - both inside and outside of the circus - was so magical. The characters had so much depth, and I fell in love with (almost) each and every one. Horace was an asshole but we can ignore that. I definitely recommend that people try to read this at least once.
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