It's always interesting to read a Batman-adjacent book that has actual magic in it; so much of Batman's antics are all about fancy technology or scienIt's always interesting to read a Batman-adjacent book that has actual magic in it; so much of Batman's antics are all about fancy technology or science gone wrong.
It's easy to forget that this is a Dick Grayson, future Robin and Nightwing, story. It's sometime before Batman comes into his life, or maybe in an alternate universe where his parents don't die. He's a teen who feels a little trapped by his life in a circus, and I like seeing him in this context, before he his life is altered by trauma.
I really liked the art and the different color palettes for the different circuses. The blues of Dick's circus really set the tone for the wistful way Dick feels about it - it's home, but is it? And the oranges of the Lost Carnival are such a bright, cheery contrast.
Overall, this was really well done and definitely makes me want to check out the other original graphic novels DC is publishing featuring characters outside their usual context (A Mr. Freeze one?? Victor and Nora: A Gotham Love Story All right!)...more
Really wonderful. The story and the characters were super engrossing, and McLemore's language is lovely and magical. I'm definitely looking forward toReally wonderful. The story and the characters were super engrossing, and McLemore's language is lovely and magical. I'm definitely looking forward to the next thing from her. ...more
SO SWEET and sort of heartbreaking and completely wonderful. I loved Ivan and the other animals. This would be a great one to read for/with kids who aSO SWEET and sort of heartbreaking and completely wonderful. I loved Ivan and the other animals. This would be a great one to read for/with kids who are super into animals. The text is fairly simple and quick, accessible for kids from about 8 years old on up. ...more
Second read: While some of the mystery and magic and suspense is lessened by a second read of this, I do find it to be utterly magical and beautiful, and I am currently writing this from a state of "book hangover" where I'm not entirely ready to leave Le Cirque des Rêves despite that the book has ended. I could see this becoming a favorite book, a regular reread, as within these pages is the only way to visit this circus. I think I will be visiting this old friend for many years to come.
This book is so lovely, and I am so glad I took the time to reread it....more
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