sparetimereader 's review for:

The Circus Train by Amita Parikh

4.0

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Short synopsis: Set in Europe before the start of WWII, young Lena Papadopoulos who was born with polio and can’t walk,  lives with her father on a traveling circus train. One day she finds Alexandre a young Jewish stowaway boy on board, and their friendship blossoms.

My thoughts: This was a mesmerizing story set in the backdrop of a developing war and anti-semitism on the rise. It had some great topics, but my favorite part was watching Lena learn to love herself despite the Rocky hand she was dealt. She persevered through some vert difficult situations and learned to find her own happiness.

I really liked traveling with the circus throughout Europe and seeing little tidbits into some of the culture. I also really liked the behind the scenes look Into the circus and entertainment aspect of the book.  

There are definitely some heavy moments sprinkled throughout. But honestly I wouldn’t have appreciated the book as much if we didn’t hear about the struggles faced during the War. So be prepared for some emotional moments. 

Read if you love: 

• Historical fiction 
• Circus acts and illusions 
• Found family 
• Coming of age