Step right up for an exciting glimpse into the inner workings of circus performances and wonders. In each book, information is presented very effectively and enticingly, with definitions provided at the bottom of their page and "Circus Fact" callouts. Photographs of the circus are aesthetically pleasing. An appropriately titled segment, "Don't try this at home, try this instead," suggests experiments for thrill-seeking readers to mimic the death-defying stunts featured but on a much smaller scale (e.g., a water bottle rocket as opposed to a human cannonball). Safety is also discussed throughout. Visual presentation is exceptional; titles are also well organized, with numerous nonfiction text features.

VERDICT Highly recommended for libraries where science, entertainment, and the circus are popular.