
Reach for this book when your child is navigating a situation where they feel small, unheard, or trapped by unfair expectations. It is a powerful tool for discussing the difference between appearance and reality, and how inner resourcefulness can lead to liberation. The story follows Little Kit, an orphan in Victorian London who disguises herself as a boy to survive, only to be exploited by a cruel circus performer. Through Kit's journey, children see that even when adults are untrustworthy, a child's own cleverness and moral compass can guide them to safety. This historical adventure is ideal for ages 5 to 9, offering a safe space to explore themes of resilience, financial hardship, and the courage required to stand up for oneself. It serves as both a gripping tale and a bridge to deeper conversations about justice and self-reliance.
Kit is in a vulnerable position and fears being sent to the workhouse.
Depicts child poverty and the loneliness of being an orphan.
The book deals with poverty and child exploitation in a direct, realistic manner. It is secular in nature. While the Professor is a 'villain' archetype, his cruelty is psychological and financial. The resolution is hopeful and empowering, as Kit takes agency over her own future.
An 8-year-old who enjoys historical 'street urchin' stories like Oliver Twist, but who needs a protagonist with more agency. It's perfect for a child who feels they are doing all the work in a group project or family chore and needs to see that their contributions have value.
Read cold. Parents might want to briefly explain what a 'workhouse' or 'street urchin' was to provide historical context for Kit's initial desperation. A parent might choose this after seeing their child being bullied by an older peer or authority figure, or if the child is struggling with a secret they are afraid to share.
Younger children (5-6) will be fascinated by the mechanics of the flea circus and root for Kit to escape the 'mean man.' Older children (8-9) will better grasp the gender disguise element and the social commentary on Victorian poverty.
McCully’s watercolor illustrations capture the grimy yet vibrant Victorian setting perfectly, and the flea circus hook is unique and high-interest for children who love tiny things.
Set in the gritty atmosphere of Victorian London, Little Kit is an orphan selling flowers who disguises herself as a boy for safety. She is recruited by Professor Malefetta to assist with his Flea Circus. Kit is the one who actually does the hard work of caring for the tiny performers, but she is treated poorly and kept in a state of fear. Eventually, Kit's realization of her own worth and the Professor's fraudulence leads her to seek a better life.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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