The Circus Train

By: Amita Parikh

Narrated by: Imogen Church

International Bestseller and #1 LibraryReads Pick

Water for Elephants meets The Night Circus in this World War II debut about a magnificent travelling circus, a star-crossed romance, and one girl’s coming-of-age during the darkest of times.

“A powerful reminder that to live is not just to survive, but to be seen and known for ourselves.” —Pam Jenoff, author of The Orphan’s Tale

When all is lost, how do you find the courage to keep moving forward?

1938. Lena Papadopoulos has never quite found her place within the circus, even as the daughter of the extraordinary headlining illusionist, Theo. Brilliant and curious, Lena—who uses a wheelchair after a childhood bout with polio—yearns for the real-world magic of science and medicine, her mind stronger than the limitations placed on her by society. Then her unconventional life takes an exciting turn when she rescues Alexandre, an orphan with his own secrets and a mysterious past.

As World War II escalates around them, their friendship blossoms into something deeper while Alexandre trains as the illusionist’s apprentice. But when Theo and Alexandre are arrested and made to perform in a town for Jews set up by the Nazis, Lena is separated from everything she knows. Forced to make her own way, Lena must confront her doubts and dare to believe in the impossible—herself.

Pleasantly surprised!

I wasn’t sure how I’d like this book, as I’ve had a hard time getting into circus-themed books in the past. But this read much more like a well-researched historical fiction novel. I thoroughly enjoyed it!

Skipping

Did not like that it kept skipping years ahead right when something significant was getting ready to happen. Did enjoy listening to the reader.

Compelling characters

Shuch a lovely audiobook, loved the acting!
A beautiful journey, heartwarming with tridimensional characters, love, sorrow and magic.

Great Story

Great story of love, hardship, adventure and grit. Narrator good with female voices, not so much with the males

Not what I expected!

A very surprising story of a girl overcoming so much and persevering through it all. I expected more to be directed to the war and the camps in general. But this was a very interesting take from a different point of view. I loved the twists that kept me guessing and of course the love story building throughout. Overall well done and would definitely recommend