Jason Ollander-Krane’s historical fiction novel Circus Home transports readers into the lively and colorful realm of circus performers anchored in New Jersey. The narrative takes us through various settings, including 1880s Brooklyn, 1920s Mississippi, 1940s Detroit, and 1950s New York City. The book skillfully blends drama, humor, and wit, reflecting the eclectic experiences of a circus troupe and captivating readers with its engaging storytelling.

At the heart of this novel is Brendan Hardy, the seasoned carnival barker who draws people into the enthralling world of the circus. As Brendan ages, he acquiesces to his daughter’s request to move into an assisted living facility. Yet, this is no ordinary facility; he chooses the New Jersey Home for Retired Circus and Carnival Performers, a place resonant with echoes of his past life. Here, Brendan gathers and shares the rich tapestry of tales from the retired performers, collectively known as the Circus Home, weaving together their shared histories and experiences.

Circus Home is thoughtfully structured into eight ‘acts,’ each unraveling a story from Brendan’s past and the pasts of those around him, fluidly shifting between timelines. The reader encounters a series of compelling characters: Herbert Gopnik, the Clown; Walter Whalen Jr., the Magician; Hiram Fitzgerald, the Voice of the Big Top; and Norman Rockwell, the Thinnest Man. Brendan’s narrative includes his romance with Iris, the Elephant Tamer. It delves into the extraordinary lives of Jackson and Martin Armstrong, the Siamese Twins, as well as the gripping tale of Larisa Yohantova Grayson and Chance Grayson, the security agents of the troupe.

The convergence of these diverse and vivid characters, each with a unique background but united by their passion for performance, offers a captivating glimpse into the world of the circus. Circus Home is a novel that appeals broadly, inviting readers to delve into the enchanting and multifaceted lives of its characters.

Pages: 342 | ASIN : B0BJNYJ577.

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/03/26/circus-home-a-novel-of-life-love-and-new-jersey/