When the Circus Came to Town
Laurence Yep is one of children's literature's most respected Asian American authors. When the Circus Came to Town is based on actual events that occurred in the early twentieth century. It is a story about the pain of being different and the comfort in finding the community to which you belong. The main character is Ursula, who always wanted to see the circus. Then she caught smallpox. When she recovers, her face is badly scarred, and she doesn't want to leave her room or for anyone to see her. Her parents' Chinese cook sets up a surprise for Ursula when he brings a magical circus to town. This helps give Ursula the confidence she needs to face the world. In return, Ursula surprises Ah Sam by creating the best Chinese New Year celebration the town has ever seen.
I enjoyed reading this story and think that children will relate to going through hard times and feeling like an outcast. Other books written by Laurence Yep include: The Magic Paintbrush, The Imp That Ate My Homework, Dream Soul, Dragonwings, Angelfish, and many more.
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