First published 2015
Marlo arrives at the Stardust Circus as the newest performer. She meets Bella, Carly, and Allie, three girls who already call the circus home. The established trio welcomes Marlo warmly, but she feels pressure to prove herself worthy of their friendship. Marlo throws herself into every circus act she can find. She attempts the trapeze but struggles with the aerial work. Tightrope walking proves equally challenging as she wobbles and loses her balance. Her juggling practice ends with balls scattered across the ground. Even dog training sessions spiral into comedic chaos. Each failed attempt makes Marlo more desperate to discover where she belongs in the circus world. The other girls encourage her efforts, but Marlo knows she needs to find something she truly excels at. She dreams of commanding the spotlight like a real circus star, yet her special talent remains hidden. The friendship with Bella, Carly, and Allie grows stronger through each mishap, but Marlo still searches for the skill that will make her shine.
Genres: family-life, friendship, contemporary, young-adult
Vibes: emotional, heartwarming, uplifting
Tropes: fish-out-of-water, found-family
Setting: Stardust Circus
96 pages · Paperback · Scholastic Inc.