The Circus Rose by Betsy Cornwell
Published by Clarion Books on June 16, 2020
ISBN: 1328639509
Pages: 288
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
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Ivory and Rosie are twin sisters working in a travelling circus with their mother, the ringmaster. Ivory is interested in building and learning how things work. She works behind the scenes. Ivory has a close relationship with a Faerie magician, Tam who is referred to as “fer” and “fe.” Rosie is a performer. She and Bear are constant companions. An accident takes places that changes everything for everyone. A fanatic religious fundamentalist group is part of the quickly moving plot. This retelling of Snow White and Rose Red is told in alternating chapters. Ivory’s chapters are in prose and Rosie’s are in free verse. Sexual identity and gender roles are explored and questioned. This sensitive story is well told and will appeal to a mature audience.

Reviewed by Kris Zuidema, retired school librarian, Standish