5 Books About (Nice!) Clowns

In this book of contrasts and surprises, a young clown bounces off a circus train, leaving him in the middle of a lonely field as his family continues on into the distance. As it turns out, the field belongs to a farmer who appears as sad and empty as his field. Not sure what else to do, the farmer takes the little clown back to his house, where each makes some surprising discoveries about the other. While the book is completely wordless, the illustrations are full of details that reveal a full range of emotions in the short time the farmer and the clown spend together. (Ages 4-8)

A retelling of a French legend, The Clown of God features a young boy named Giovanni who shows a magnificent skill for juggling at a young age. As an adult, Giovanni travels the country, sharing his talent and joy with crowds all over Italy. But in time, Giovanni grows to be not quite so young, his juggling not quite so spectacular, and the crowds not quite so large. Feeling he has nothing left to offer, the great Giovanni finds himself reduced to a lowly beggar until one special night when Giovanni discovers he does, in fact, have a little bit more left to give. (Ages 4-8)

All Chipper ever dreamed of doing was making people laugh. Joining the circus, he thought his dream had come true, but no one thought he was funny. Even his clown suit was all wrong. Luckily, there were many experienced clowns at the circus that were able to show him the ropes. This heartwarming clown story shows kids that it’s okay to ask for help. (Ages 13)

Everybody’s favorite grade schooler with the photographic memory is headed to the big top! Cam’s Aunt Molly is always losing things, so when her wallet goes missing while at the circus, Cam and her friend Andy assume it’s just a mistake. But when they discover that Aunt Molly is not the only one missing a wallet, the super-sleuth friends realize there’s a pickpocket running loose. Cam is sure the culprit is a clown, but which one? As always, it’s Cam’s attention to detail and her superb memory that will crack the case. (Ages 7-10)

This classic picture book introduces kids to all the different characters featured in the circus, including friendly clowns. The colorful illustrations feature not only clowns but other entertainers like leaping lizards, whistling parrots and marching snakes among others. This easy-to-read book is a celebration of circus life and clowns of course!  (Ages 4-8)