The Circus Ship

Overview of "The Circus Ship" by Chris Van Dusen

Plot Summary: "The Circus Ship" is a children's picture book written and illustrated by Chris Van Dusen. The story is loosely based on a true historical event involving the Royal Tar steamer, which sank off the coast of Maine in 1836. The book tells the tale of a circus ship that runs aground off the coast of Maine, leaving fifteen circus animals stranded on a nearby island. Initially, the townspeople view the animals with suspicion, but eventually, the locals and animals form a harmonious community. The story highlights the bonds of friendship and community as the animals and townspeople work together and outsmart the greedy circus owner who tries to reclaim them.

Key Themes:

1. Community and Friendship: The book emphasizes the importance of building community and welcoming new friends. It shows how the animals and townspeople come together despite initial differences, forming a harmonious community.
2. Kindness and Courage: The story highlights the kind and courageous nature of the circus animals, which helps them win over the wary townspeople.
3. Outsmarting Adversity: The tale also features the animals and townspeople conspiring to outsmart the greedy circus owner, demonstrating their resourcefulness and determination.

Critical Reception:

• Kirkus Reviews: Praised the book for its "sprightly verse" and "stunning pictures," noting that children will "pore over the panoramic spreads".
• School Library Journal: Commended Van Dusen's illustrations for their "color and energy" and praised the use of perspective and texture to add drama and humor. The spread featuring the animals in hiding was described as "pure genius".
• Publisher's Weekly: Noted that the fantasy of African wildlife on a quiet Maine island will engage read-aloud audiences, and a clever hide-and-seek page lets readers hunt for the animals.

Author's Background: Chris Van Dusen studied fine art at The University of Massachusetts at Dartmouth and graduated with a BFA in 1982. He initially worked as a waiter and then as an illustrator for a magazine for teenagers, eventually starting his career as an illustrator.

Overall, "The Circus Ship" is a charming and entertaining tale that celebrates community, kindness, and outsmarting adversity, all presented through Van Dusen's masterful verses and stunning illustrations.