I really liked this book for a number of reasons, but mostly because of the message that came across as I was reading it. With the illustrator's use of bright, colorful, detailed pictures/paintings, readers are able to connect or relate the people, places and things to what they know to take place in the circus. The author and illustrator work well together to show children how simple it is for them to be a part of something by using or taking advantage of the simple people, places and things they have right in their neighborhood. Both the author and illustrator incorporate comparisons to things children may see in a circus, which not only are attractive to the eye, but this allows children to feel like they can relate to the main character of the book. For example, one page in the book shows a chef flipping pancakes. This can easily be compared to that of a juggling act in the circus. Another page shows a construction worker walking across a very high building, as he holds two large buckets. This can be compared to a trapeze act in the circus. Overall, this book allows children to make personal connections to things they see in everyday life, after looking at the pictures used throughout the book. Being able to make connections to a text is super important and this book does a great job of granting students that opportunity. ( )

To see this week's wordless picture books, please visit -https://readrantrockandroll.com/2017/08/02/wednesdays-wordless-picture-books-6/

This picture story begins in the city streets with regular everyday people going about their day while observing others around them. The Garibaldi Circus will soon be coming to the city, but what’s really happening in the shadows might be more interesting than you think. Children will notice that our ordinary lives are more interesting than we think and all we need to do is pay attention to what’s happening around us.

We enjoyed the book and ended up starting it over twice. You really have to pay attention to the shadows to see what’s going on. It’s a really unique book and we loved the illustrations.

4**** ( )

I enjoyed the concept of this wordless book because I feel that there are many younger children that wouldn't understand it the way many adults might. The circus has been a disappearing entertainment act but this book brings it back for all readers. There's a lot to look at in this book, it would work well for students to look through individually during a quiet reading time. ( )

talks about how the sidewalk is a busy and silly place just like the circus.
wordless picture book.
1 book

"Sidewalk Circus" features a young viewer sitting on a sidewalk bench watching all of the work going on in her city. Most people do not see construction workers and food vendors and envision a circus act. When this young girl looks at the leader of the construction crew holding a blue print, she sees a ring leader. In the shadows, the blue print becomes a mega phone and his hat becomes a huge circus top hat. Using no words, a complete circus act is portrayed. This is my favorite book of the entire semester. It is amazing how people can view so many things differently. Imagination plays a major role in the theme. In the shadows we are able to see flame catchers, the strongest man alive, tight rope walkers, and a juggler. ( )