When the Circus Came to Town

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with self-consciousness, visible differences, or the emotional aftermath of a physical illness. This historical novel addresses the deep desire to hide away when we feel 'less than' because of our appearance, offering a gentle path back toward self-acceptance and social connection. Ten-year-old Ursula lives at a remote Montana stagecoach stop and has become a recluse after smallpox left her face scarred. Her world expands when she forms an unlikely bond with Ah Sam, the family's Chinese cook, and his visiting circus troupe. Through their friendship and a shared celebration of Chinese New Year, Ursula learns that her value is not tied to her reflection. It is a poignant, realistic look at building resilience and finding beauty in unexpected places, perfect for readers aged 8 to 12 who are navigating changes in their own self-identity.