20 best books on the circus for adults – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you ready to step into the magical world of the circus? Whether you’re a lifelong fan or simply intrigued by the captivating allure of the big top, these 20 best books about the circus for adults will transport you into a realm of wonder and excitement. From heartwarming tales of love and adventure to dark and mysterious journeys under the circus tent, these books offer a mesmerizing escape that will leave you longing for more. So, put on your top hat, grab a bag of popcorn, and get ready to dive into the enchanting world of the circus with these captivating reads.


The Night Circus

by Erin Morgenstern

The Night Circus is a mesmerizing book that takes you on a captivating journey into the enchanting world of Le Cirque des Rêves. This extraordinary tale weaves a spellbinding tapestry of magic, love, and mystery, making it the ultimate book on the circus for adults.

Water for Elephants

by Sara Gruen

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen is a mesmerizing book on the circus for adults that takes readers on a thrilling and magical journey under the big top. Set in the 1930s, this captivating novel tells the story of Jacob Jankowski, a young veterinary student who finds himself lost and desperate after a family tragedy. In a twist of fate, Jacob stumbles upon a traveling circus and is immediately drawn into its enchanting world.

With its vivid descriptions and richly-drawn characters, this book about the circus for adults offers a glimpse into the hidden lives and secrets of the performers and animals who inhabit the circus. From the charismatic and mysterious ringmaster to the fierce and beautiful equestrian star, each character adds depth and intrigue to the story.

As Jacob becomes entangled in the circus’s web of love, danger, and betrayal, readers are transported to a bygone era where the circus was a thrilling spectacle that both captivated and terrified audiences. Through Gruen’s evocative prose, the sights, sounds, and smells of the circus come to life, immersing readers in a world filled with wonder and danger.

Water for Elephants is not just a book about the circus for adults; it is a powerful exploration of love, loyalty, and the human spirit. With its unforgettable characters and heart-pounding plot, this is the circus for adults book that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.

The Museum of Extraordinary Things

by Alice Hoffman

The Museum of Extraordinary Things is an enchanting book on the circus for adults that takes readers on a mesmerizing journey into the world of wonder and curiosities. Set in early 20th century New York City, this spellbinding novel invites readers to step into the magical realm of the circus through the eyes of two unforgettable characters.

Coralie Sardie, a young woman with webbed fingers, is the daughter of the eccentric Professor Sardie, owner of the Museum of Extraordinary Things. Raised in the museum, she becomes a living exhibit, captivating audiences with her aquatic abilities. But behind her captivating facade, Coralie yearns for freedom and independence.

Eddie Cohen, a young Jewish immigrant, is a photographer who captures the essence of New York City’s gritty streets. Drawn to the mystery surrounding a missing young woman, Eddie finds himself entangled in a web of secrets and deceit that leads him to the Museum of Extraordinary Things.

As Coralie and Eddie’s paths intertwine, their lives become intertwined in ways they could never have imagined. Together, they navigate the dark underbelly of the city and the secrets hidden within the museum’s walls. Hoffman’s rich prose and vivid descriptions bring the circus for adults to life, immersing readers in a world of wonder, danger, and unexpected love.

The Museum of Extraordinary Things is not just a book about the circus for adults, but a tale of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of embracing one’s true self. With its captivating storytelling and unforgettable characters, this novel is a must-read for anyone seeking to escape into a world of enchantment and intrigue.

The Electric Michelangelo

by Sarah Hall

Step right up and prepare to be mesmerized by “The Electric Michelangelo” – a tantalizing tale that takes readers on an exhilarating journey into the captivating world of the Big Top. This extraordinary novel by Sarah Hall is not just any book about the circus for adults; it’s a sensory explosion, a dazzling display of words that will leave you breathless.

At the heart of this book on the circus for adults is the enigmatic protagonist, Cy Parks – a young artist with a gift for transforming human bodies into living works of art. As he navigates the tumultuous world of the circus, Cy encounters a cast of eccentric characters and embarks on a passionate love affair that will challenge his beliefs and push the boundaries of his art.

With its vivid descriptions and evocative language, “The Electric Michelangelo” transports readers to a bygone era, where the circus was a vibrant and seductive world filled with wonder and danger. Hall’s prose is a tightrope act of poetic beauty, seamlessly blending the gritty reality of circus life with the ethereal magic that lies beneath the surface.

This is not just any book about the circus for adults; it’s a mesmerizing exploration of identity, desire, and the transformative power of art. Through Cy’s journey, Hall raises profound questions about the nature of beauty and the lengths we will go to create and protect it.

So, step right up and enter the world of “The Electric Michelangelo” – a spellbinding circus for adults book that will leave you spellbound and yearning for more.

The Book of Speculation

by Erika Swyler

The Book of Speculation by Erika Swyler is a captivating novel that delves into the enchanting world of the circus for adults. This mesmerizing tale is a spellbinding mix of mystery, romance, and family secrets. Set against the backdrop of a crumbling seaside town, the story follows a librarian named Simon Watson who receives a mysterious old book on the circus for adults.

The Gracekeepers

by Kirsty Logan

Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, and prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting world of The Gracekeepers by Kirsty Logan. This captivating tale is like a thrilling circus performance, but with a twist – it’s a book about the circus for adults!

Enter a world where the sea has swallowed the land, and a vast circus boat known as “The Excalibur” drifts across the water, captivating audiences with its mesmerizing acts. But this is no ordinary circus – it is a wondrous troupe of performers known as “The Gracekeepers.” These skilled artists are not only masters of their craft, but they are also bearers of secrets, each with their own unique story to tell.

Among them is Callanish, a young woman who tends the graves of those lost at sea, known as “The Gracekeepers.” Trapped between her island home and the floating circus, she yearns for a life beyond her solitary existence. But when she crosses paths with North, a fearless performer with a troupe of dancing bears, their fates become intertwined in a tale of love, loss, and the search for belonging.

With poetic prose and vivid descriptions, Kirsty Logan paints a breathtaking portrait of a world where land and sea collide, where the boundaries between reality and illusion blur, and where the circus becomes a metaphor for the human experience. The Gracekeepers is a book that will leave you spellbound, as you journey alongside its characters through a world filled with wonder, longing, and the eternal search for a place to call home.

So, step right up, my friends, and prepare to be transported to a world like no other. The Gracekeepers is the circus for adults book you’ve been waiting for, an extraordinary tale that will leave you breathless and yearning for more.

The Circus of Ghosts

by Barbara Ewing

The Circus of Ghosts by Barbara Ewing is a mesmerizing book that transports readers into the enchanting world of the big top. This captivating tale is not just a book about the circus for adults, but an extraordinary journey that will leave you breathless.

The Gypsy Moth Summer

by Julia Fierro

The Gypsy Moth Summer by Julia Fierro is a captivating novel that delves into the intricate and scandalous world of a small coastal town during a summer filled with secrets, desires, and forbidden attractions. Set against the backdrop of a vibrant circus, this mesmerizing tale explores the complexities of human relationships and the blurred boundaries between love and obsession. With its richly woven narrative and multifaceted characters, The Gypsy Moth Summer is the perfect book for those seeking a thrilling and immersive experience into the enigmatic world of the circus for adults.

The Circus Fire: A True Story of an American Tragedy

by Stewart O’Nan

Are you ready for a heart-stopping journey under the big top? Look no further than “The Circus Fire: A True Story of an American Tragedy” by Stewart O’Nan. This captivating book takes readers on a thrilling and haunting exploration of one of the most devastating events in circus history.

Step right up and immerse yourself in the world of the big top as O’Nan paints a vivid picture of the circus in all its glory. But this is no ordinary circus tale. O’Nan delves deep into the dark underbelly of the circus world, revealing the hidden dangers and tragedies that lurk behind the dazzling spectacle.

With meticulous research and a keen eye for detail, O’Nan tells the true story of the Hartford Circus Fire of 1944. This catastrophic event, which claimed the lives of 167 people and injured hundreds more, shocked the nation and forever changed the way we view the circus.

Through interviews, newspaper archives, and personal accounts, O’Nan reconstructs the harrowing events of that fateful day. He introduces us to the performers, the spectators, and the ordinary people caught in the midst of the chaos. Their stories, filled with heroism, tragedy, and resilience, will grip you from the very first page.

But “The Circus Fire” is more than just a book about a tragic event. It is a testament to the spirit of the circus and the human capacity to overcome adversity. O’Nan’s masterful storytelling will transport you to a bygone era, where the circus was a magical escape from reality and the performers were larger than life.

So, if you’re looking for a mesmerizing book on the circus for adults, “The Circus Fire” is a must-read. Prepare to be enthralled, moved, and left with a newfound appreciation for the courage and resilience of those who lived and died under the big top.

The Circus in Winter

by Cathy Day

Step right up and enter the mesmerizing world of The Circus in Winter, a captivating book on the circus for adults that will leave you spellbound! Cathy Day takes us on a thrilling journey through the enchanting world of the big top, where acrobats soar through the air, clowns bring laughter to the crowd, and elephants parade with magnificent grace. But this is not just any book about the circus for adults; it delves deep into the lives of the performers, revealing the secrets, passions, and heartaches that lie beneath the glitz and glamour of the big show.

Through a series of interconnected stories, Day introduces us to a colorful cast of characters, each with their own unique tale to tell. We meet the fearless circus owner, the star trapeze artist hiding a dark secret, the talented animal trainer struggling to find her place, and many more. As we become immersed in their stories, we begin to understand that the circus is not just a place of spectacle, but a vibrant community where dreams are made and broken, and where the line between reality and illusion becomes blurred.

The Circus in Winter is not your average the circus for adults book. It explores themes of love, loss, identity, and the pursuit of happiness, all set against the backdrop of the captivating circus world. Day’s rich and vivid prose brings the sights, sounds, and smells of the circus to life, immersing us in its magic and leaving us longing for more.

So, step right up and prepare to be transported to a world like no other. The Circus in Winter is a captivating journey that will leave you breathless, mesmerized, and forever changed.

The Circus of Dr. Lao

by Charles G. Finney

The Circus of Dr. Lao – Book Overview

The Circus of Dr. Lao – A Mesmerizing Journey Into the Enigmatic World of the Big Top

Prepare to be captivated by Charles G. Finney’s extraordinary masterpiece – The Circus of Dr. Lao. This spellbinding novel takes readers on a thrilling and thought-provoking adventure through the wondrous and enigmatic world of the circus.

With its rich and vivid storytelling, Finney’s The Circus of Dr. Lao is far from your typical circus tale. This is no ordinary book about the circus for adults, but rather a literary gem that delves deep into the human psyche, exploring themes of desire, illusion, and the duality of human nature.

Dr. Lao, the enigmatic and mysterious ringmaster, invites you to witness the most extraordinary spectacle on Earth. As you step into the tent, you’ll encounter a myriad of fantastical creatures and mythical beings. From the awe-inspiring Medusa to the wise and witty Merlin, each character embodies a different facet of our own humanity.

Through the eyes of the circus’s visitors, Finney masterfully weaves a tapestry of human experience, challenging our perceptions and forcing us to confront the complexities of our own existence. As the story unfolds, you’ll find yourself questioning what is real and what is mere illusion, and whether the circus is a mere reflection of our own desires and fears.

With its rich symbolism and thought-provoking narrative, The Circus of Dr. Lao is more than just a book on the circus for adults – it is a profound exploration of the human condition. Finney’s prose is both lyrical and evocative, transporting readers to a world where dreams and reality intertwine.

So step right up and join Dr. Lao’s mesmerizing circus. Lose yourself in the enchantment, the mystery, and the profound philosophical questions that lie beneath the surface of this extraordinary tale. Discover for yourself why The Circus of Dr. Lao is hailed as a true gem in the realm of literature,

The Circus of Lost Dreams

by Lorena Carrington

Welcome to the mesmerizing world of The Circus of Lost Dreams, a captivating book on the circus for adults that will transport you to a realm of enchantment and mystery. With its exquisite prose and breathtaking illustrations, this book about the circus for adults takes you on a spellbinding journey through the labyrinthine corridors of a forgotten carnival.

Step into a realm where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur and the unexpected lurks around every corner. The Circus of Lost Dreams beckons you with its tantalizing secrets and hidden wonders, inviting you to explore the depths of your own desires and fears.

Within the pages of this the circus for adults book, you will encounter a menagerie of extraordinary characters – the eccentric ringmaster, the enigmatic fortune teller, the elusive contortionist, and many more. Each character possesses a haunting backstory, revealing the layers of their complex lives and the secrets they hold close to their hearts.

As you delve deeper into the mystical world of the circus, you will uncover a tapestry of interconnected stories, each one more enthralling than the last. From the heart-wrenching tales of lost love to the exhilarating performances under the big top, this book will leave you spellbound, yearning for just one more glimpse into the lives of these extraordinary performers.

Prepare to be captivated by the evocative prose and stunning illustrations that bring the magic of the circus to life. The Circus of Lost Dreams is not just a book; it is an immersive experience that will transport you to a realm where dreams and reality intertwine, leaving you forever changed.

The Circus of Stolen Dreams

by Lorena Carrington

Welcome to the mesmerizing world of The Circus of Stolen Dreams, a captivating book on the circus for adults that will transport you to a realm of enchantment and intrigue. Enter into a realm where magic and mystery intertwine, and where the boundaries of reality blur under the dazzling lights of the big top.

In this extraordinary book about the circus for adults, author Lorena Carrington weaves a spellbinding tale that will captivate your imagination from start to finish. Prepare to be enthralled as you follow the extraordinary journey of a young girl named Joy, who stumbles upon a hidden circus that exists only in dreams.

Within the pages of this the circus for adults book, you will encounter a cast of eclectic and eccentric characters, each with their own secrets and desires. From the enigmatic Ringmaster to the elusive Fortune Teller, each member of the circus possesses a unique and compelling story that will keep you turning the pages.

As Joy delves deeper into the mysteries of the circus, she discovers that it is no ordinary spectacle. It is a place where stolen dreams are kept, where the forgotten hopes and aspirations of both performers and audience members are safeguarded. But as Joy becomes entangled in the web of the circus, she must confront her own dreams and desires, and make a choice that will change her life forever.

With its lush prose and vivid imagery, The Circus of Stolen Dreams is a testament to the power of storytelling. Carrington’s evocative descriptions will transport you to a world where the impossible becomes possible, and where dreams are made manifest.

If you are seeking an unforgettable adventure, a journey into the heart of the extraordinary, then look no further than The Circus of Stolen Dreams. This book on the circus for adults is a literary gem that will leave you spellbound and yearning for more.

The Circus of Adventure

by Enid Blyton

Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, and prepare to be amazed! Enid Blyton’s The Circus of Adventure is not your ordinary book about the circus for adults. This thrilling tale takes you on a whirlwind adventure filled with excitement, danger, and of course, the mesmerizing world of the big top.

Join the intrepid young adventurers, Jack, Lucy-Ann, Philip, and Dinah, as they stumble upon a mysterious circus hidden deep in the mountains. But this is no ordinary circus – it’s a secret operation run by an eccentric ringmaster and filled with enigmatic performers.

As the children delve deeper into the secrets of the circus, they uncover a nefarious plot that could threaten the very fabric of their world. With danger lurking at every turn, they must use their wits and courage to unravel the truth and save the day.

But beware, dear reader, for this is not just a book on the circus for adults – it is a captivating journey that will transport you back to the enchantment of childhood. Enid Blyton’s masterful storytelling and vivid imagination bring the magic of the circus to life, capturing the hearts of readers young and old alike.

So, if you’re ready to be dazzled by thrilling escapades, heart-pounding suspense, and the timeless allure of the circus, then The Circus of Adventure is the book for you. Step right up and immerse yourself in the wonder and mystery of the big top!

The Circus of the Earth and the Air

by Brooke Stevens

The Circus of the Earth and the Air is a mesmerizing and enchanting book about the enigmatic world of the big top. Delving into the vibrant and spellbinding realm of the circus for adults, this extraordinary literary masterpiece by Brooke Stevens takes readers on a thrilling journey through the dazzling performances and hidden secrets of the circus.

The Circus of the Earth and the Air: The Circus of the Earth and the Air

by Brooke Stevens

Step right up and prepare to be amazed by The Circus of the Earth and the Air, a captivating book that takes readers on a thrilling journey into the mesmerizing world of the Big Top. Unlike any other book about the circus for adults, this enchanting tale will transport you back to the golden age of the circus, where extraordinary feats of strength, grace, and daring take center stage.

Written by the talented author Brooke Stevens, The Circus of the Earth and the Air is a perfect blend of fantasy and reality, weaving together the stories of captivating characters who call the circus their home. From the fearless acrobats soaring through the air to the mysterious fortune-teller who holds the secrets of the future, each page of this book is filled with wonder and intrigue.

What sets this book apart is its ability to capture the essence of the circus, not just through its vivid descriptions, but through the emotions it evokes. As you turn each page, you will feel the excitement and anticipation of the audience, the adrenaline rush of the performers, and the bittersweet nostalgia of a bygone era.

With its richly detailed illustrations and poetic prose, The Circus of the Earth and the Air is a feast for the senses. It invites readers to suspend their disbelief and immerse themselves in a world where anything is possible. Whether you have a lifelong fascination with the circus or are simply looking for a captivating read, this book is sure to entertain and inspire.

So step right up, ladies and gentlemen, and let The Circus of the Earth and the Air take you on a journey like no other. Prepare to be dazzled, enchanted, and left in awe as you experience the magic of the circus through the eyes of Brooke Stevens.

The Circus of the Damned

by Laurell K. Hamilton

The Circus of the Damned is a tantalizing and thrilling escapade that immerses readers into a world of dark wonders and twisted enchantment. Laurell K. Hamilton weaves a mesmerizing tale around a circus like no other – a book about the circus for adults that will leave you breathless.

The Circus of the Sun

by R. A. MacAvoy

The Circus of the Sun: A captivating book on the circus for adults

Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, and prepare to be mesmerized by the enchanting world of The Circus of the Sun! This extraordinary tale takes you on a thrilling journey through the magical realm of the big top, where the mesmerizing spectacle of acrobats, fire-breathers, and daredevil stunts awaits.

The Circus of the Sun is not just any ordinary book about the circus for adults; it is a literary masterpiece that weaves together the captivating stories of the performers and the intricate workings of their dazzling acts. With vivid prose and a touch of whimsy, author R. A. MacAvoy transports readers into a world where imagination knows no bounds.

This book about the circus for adults is a celebration of human resilience, the pursuit of dreams, and the power of the extraordinary. Through the eyes of the performers, we witness their triumphs, heartaches, and the unbreakable bonds that tie them together under the big top. MacAvoy’s eloquent storytelling captures the essence of the circus, evoking a sense of wonder and awe that will leave you spellbound.

Prepare to be transported into a world where gravity is defied, hearts are touched, and the extraordinary becomes ordinary. The Circus of the Sun is not just a book for circus enthusiasts, but a mesmerizing journey for anyone who seeks to be captivated by the magic that lies within the human spirit.

The Circus of the Earth and the Air: The Circus of the Earth and the Air

by Brooke Stevens

Welcome to The Circus of the Earth and the Air, a thrilling and enchanting book that takes you on a captivating journey through the world of the circus. This extraordinary tale is not just any ordinary book about the circus for adults; it is a mesmerizing and magical experience that will leave you breathless.

Step into a world where acrobats soar through the air with grace and beauty, where tightrope walkers defy gravity with every step, and where fire-breathers ignite the night with their fearless displays. The Circus of the Earth and the Air is a book that transports you to a realm of wonder and awe, where imagination knows no bounds.

Written by the talented Brooke Stevens, this masterpiece explores the intricate workings of the circus, delving into the lives of its performers and the trials and triumphs they face. With vivid prose and compelling characters, Stevens brings the circus to life in a way that is both realistic and fantastical.

But this is not a book solely for circus enthusiasts; it is a book that appeals to all adults who crave adventure, mystery, and a touch of the extraordinary. The Circus of the Earth and the Air is a mesmerizing tapestry of emotions, weaving together themes of love, loss, and the pursuit of dreams.

So, if you are seeking an escape from the mundane, if you yearn for a book that will transport you to a world of wonder, then look no further. The Circus of the Earth and the Air is the circus for adults book that you have been waiting for. Prepare to be dazzled, enthralled, and utterly captivated by this extraordinary tale.

The Circus of the Damned

by Laurell K. Hamilton

The Circus of the Damned is an electrifying and mesmerizing book about the enigmatic world of the Big Top, but with a twist. This tantalizing tale is not your typical circus story; it’s a spellbinding journey into the dark and supernatural. Prepare to be captivated by a spectacle like no other, as Laurell K. Hamilton weaves a web of mystery and intrigue that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a thrilling escape from reality, these 20 best books about the circus for adults will transport you to a world of wonder and magic. Whether you’re seeking heart-pounding suspense, captivating romance, or thought-provoking tales, these books have it all. So, grab a book, step right up, and let the circus come to life on the pages of these incredible reads. Immerse yourself in the dazzling spectacle of the circus and let your imagination run wild!