About This Book
Chris Van Dusen's 'The Circus Ship' is a vibrant, rhyming tale about a group of circus animals who survive a shipwreck and wash ashore on a small, isolated island. Initially met with fear and suspicion by the local villagers, the animals gradually win over the community through their helpfulness and kindness during a crisis. This heartwarming story explores themes of resilience, acceptance, and finding belonging in unexpected places, all told with Van Dusen's signature detailed illustrations and engaging verse. It's perfect for read-alouds with preschoolers and early elementary children, and enjoyable for independent readers up to age 8-9.
After courageously swimming to shore when the ship that they are traveling on sinks and the wretched captain does nothing to rescue them, circus animals find a way to become a valued part of a coastal community.
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Discussion Prompts
1
How did the animals feel when their ship sank? What did they do to be brave?
2
Why were the people on the island scared of the animals at first? Have you ever felt scared of something new?
3
What did the animals do to help the people? How did that change how the people felt about them?
4
What does it mean to belong? How did the animals find their place in the community?
5
If you were one of the animals, which one would you be and what would you do to help?
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