About This Book
Reach for this book when your child feels weighed down by expectations or the pressure to perform a certain talent for others. Set in the colorful, gritty world of 1930s vaudeville, it explores the internal struggle of Connie, a boy who wants to reclaim his identity from a 'gift' that feels more like a cage. It is an excellent choice for navigating the nuance between being special and being exploited. Through the eyes of his loyal friend Annie, we see Connie struggle with the ethics of his mind-reading act and the dishonesty inherent in the carnival life. The story balances historical adventure with deep questions about honesty, integrity, and the courage it takes to walk away from what people expect you to be. It is a thoughtful exploration of agency and friendship for children aged 8 to 12.
