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Circus Mirandus



Last updated Sunday, March 3, 2019

Author: Cassie Beasley
Date of Publication:
ISBN: 0525428437
Grade Level: 5th    (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Mar. 2019

Synopsis: Even though his awful Great-Aunt Gertrudis doesn’t approve, Micah believes in the stories his dying Grandpa Ephraim tells him of the magical Circus Mirandus: the invisible tiger guarding the gates, the beautiful flying birdwoman, and the magician more powerful than any other—the Man Who Bends Light. Finally, Grandpa Ephraim offers proof. The Circus is real. And the Lightbender owes Ephraim a miracle. With his friend Jenny Mendoza in tow, Micah sets out to find the Circus and the man he believes will save his grandfather. The only problem is, the Lightbender doesn't want to keep his promise. And now it's up to Micah to get the miracle he came for.

Note to readers:
•  Can start on chapter 4, if you like.

Discussion topics for before reading:
•  Do you believe in miracles?
•  What is your favorite part of a circus?

Vocabulary

•  Beckoned: make a gesture with the hand, arm or head to encourage someone to come near
•  Ornate: made in an interesting shape or decorated with complex patterns.
•  Foghorn: signal that uses sound to warn vehicles of hazards

Discussion topics for during/after reading:
•  What miracle or wish would you ask for?
•  What powers do you think the lightbender has?
•  Why did he stop granting miracles?

Craft ideas:
•  Check our craft ideas on Pinterest!
https://www.pinterest.com/readingtokids/march-2019-crafts/
•  Draw your favorite circus animal.
•  Make a circus tent out of construction paper, and cut out your favorite circus animal to place inside. See Pinterest for examples.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions. You can use them, but you don't have to use them. You can expand upon them, or add your own twist. Remember, though, that the focus of your time should not be on the development and execution of a craft; the focus should be on the read-aloud and the enjoyment of the book!