About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child is expressing a deep-seated need for autonomy or feeling like an outsider in their current environment. It is an ideal choice for the child who feels more understood by animals than people, or who dreams of a life where they can prove their own competence and loyalty without adult interference. The story follows John, a young boy who runs away during a harsh winter accompanied by his faithful dog and horse. Their journey leads them to the unconventional, bustling world of the circus, where the trio must find their footing and a sense of purpose. Margaret Pearce explores themes of resilience, the weight of responsibility, and the search for a place to call home. This chapter book is appropriate for independent readers aged 8 to 12 who enjoy realistic adventure stories that don't shy away from the colder realities of survival and the complexities of choosing one's own family.
