Nell & the Circus of Dreams; Nell Gifford, illustrated by Briony May Smith

There is something rather magical about going to the circus. The whole mystique that surrounds the big-top and what you might find when stepping into the tent. And Nell gets to experience the circus in all its glory in this read filled with plenty of high-fliers, amazing acts and all the charm of the travelling circus.

Nell is not having the best of times on the farmhouse she calls home. Her mother is ill and Nell spends her days playing alone. Things become better when Nell adopts a lost little chick with whom she can share her feelings and secrets. Then one terrible morning, Nell awakens to find that the chick has gone. A desperate Nell begins a frantic search for her friend across the meadows and out into the beyond where she stumbles upon a travelling circus community full of friendly faces, happiness, music, incredible performers and kindness…

An up-lifting and feel good read filled with wonder, awe and amazement. The book is written by the founder of an actual circus, Nell Gifford was the founder of Giffords Circus, and her love for the circus shines through in a sparkling read that will dazzle and delight. The story works on two levels and young children will love the simple story about a girl discovering the joys of a travelling circus. With the guidance of an adult, children will be able to explore ideas around finding happiness when you least expect it and how friendship comes in the most surprising of forms.

The joy of a visit to the circus is told in rich prose and is perfectly depicted in colourful and detailed illustrations that convey oodles of magic. There are plenty of feel good moments throughout and there will be lots of oohs and aahs from young readers. The most heart-warming moment is when Nell returns home from the circus along with all the wonderful feelings she has experienced and discovers something magical has happened at home too!

Recommended for 6+.