Circus Galacticus

October 3, 2011
Fagan (The Magical Misadventures of Prunella Bogthistle) makes a foray into science fiction with a zippy tale of outcasts and aliens finding their place in the universe. Fifteen-year old Beatrix “Trix” Ling is a charity case at a stuffy boarding school where she’s bullied and called a freak. Orphaned after her astronaut parents were killed in a launch accident, Trix is determined to win a gymnastics scholarship that will enable her to chase her own dreams of going into space. When that bubble bursts and she’s invited to join a mysterious circus, Trix’s cosmic ambitions come true in a way she never imagined: the Circus Galacticus isn’t from Earth. But a menacing stranger is after the meteorite Trix’s parents gave her to protect, and he’s willing to chase her across the exciting and glittery universe to get it. Reminiscent of the juveniles of old, Fagan’s story makes SF fun. It’s loaded with wild coincidences and easily spotted inspirations (X-Men, Doctor Who), yet the underlying idea of valuing diversity, friendship, and self-esteem shines, carried by Fagan’s solid writing, appealing characters, and sprinkles of whimsy. Ages 9–12.

January 1, 2012

Gr 5-8-After being chased by a creepy otherworldly stranger, Trix leaves the boarding school she detests and winds up joining a very different kind of circus. Though the orphaned teen doesn't know it at first, the performers have superhuman powers and the circus tent is actually a spaceship, piloted by an alluring young Ringmaster. Trix gradually learns more about the ship and its role in interstellar intrigue, which also ties in with the mysterious deaths of her parents many years earlier. She quickly makes friends and enemies among the other young adult performers, navigating the cliques and rivalries that are not too dissimilar from those she encountered on Earth. The premise of the space-traveling circus is intriguing and well developed. Trix is an engaging protagonist with sassy bravado and a wry sense of humor that masks her anxiety in a convincing way. Her immediate concerns about fitting in with her new peers unfold alongside bigger questions about her own past and the mystery of why she is being pursued by intergalactic agents. Action scenes involving space creatures, circus performances, and futuristic technology are not terrifically suspenseful, but Trix's engaging voice is strong throughout, and elements of mystery and hints of romance help make this a story with broad appeal.-Steven Engelfried, Wilsonville Public Library, OR

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