Polly of the Circus   By: Margaret Mayo (1882-1951)

Polly of the Circus by Margaret Mayo is a captivating and heartwarming tale that takes readers on an unforgettable journey. Set in the early 1900s, the story follows Polly, a young circus performer who captivates audiences with her aerial acrobatics.

Mayo's vivid descriptions paint a vivid picture of the circus world, immersing readers in the vibrant colors, thrilling performances, and unique camaraderie of circus life. The author expertly captures the dichotomy of the circus, with its enchanting allure and harsh realities.

What sets this novel apart is its exploration of human connection and the power of acceptance. Polly, an outsider due to her unconventional profession, finds unexpected love and acceptance in the most unlikely person – John, a hard-nosed minister who initially judges her based on her profession. Their bond is beautifully portrayed, with Mayo using their differing backgrounds and beliefs to highlight the transformative power of acceptance, empathy, and understanding.

The characters in Polly of the Circus are richly developed and relatable, each harboring unique dreams, fears, and vulnerabilities. Polly is a feisty and determined protagonist who defies societal expectations and finds her own path amidst the chaos of the circus. John, on the other hand, undergoes a profound transformation, shedding his preconceptions and embracing a new perspective on life.

Mayo's writing style is elegant and emotive, effortlessly drawing readers into the story. Her ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from joy and excitement to despair and heartache, is remarkable. The narrative flow is seamless, and the pacing keeps readers engaged throughout.

However, the book is not without its flaws. The plot sometimes focuses excessively on the details of circus performances, making it feel slightly repetitive. Additionally, some supporting characters are not as fully developed as Polly and John, leaving their stories feeling somewhat incomplete.

Despite these minor shortcomings, Polly of the Circus is a masterful work of fiction that explores themes of personal growth, acceptance, and the transformative power of love. Mayo's enchanting storytelling and well-rounded characters make this novel an enjoyable and thought-provoking read. It will appeal to anyone who appreciates a captivating romance set in a timeless backdrop.

First Page:

Circling the inside of the tent and forming a double line down the centre were partially unpacked trunks belching forth impudent masses of satins, laces, artificial hair, paper flowers, and paste jewels. The scent of moist earth mingled oddly with the perfumed odours of the garments heaped on the grass. Here and there high circles of lights threw a strong, steady glare upon the half clad figure of a robust acrobat, or the thin, drooping shoulders of a less stalwart sister. Temporary ropes stretched from one pole to another, were laden with bright coloured stockings, gaudy, spangled gowns, or dusty street clothes, discarded by the performers before slipping into their circus attire. There were no nails or hooks, so hats and veils were pinned to the canvas walls... Continue reading book >>