Okay, so I know it has been a while since I posted, but I really do have a good excuse: I was busy reading and re-reading this wonderful book! The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern was the official book club selection for June and I loved it so much that as soon as I finished reading the last page, I immediately turned back to the beginning. And you ask, "But, Smart Girl, can it really be that good?" Oh, it really, really is that good. One of the fun things about this book (and there are dozens of fun things about it) is that it isn't written in a direct time line. One chapter is set in 1873, another chapter in 1886 and the very next in 1902. It bounces back and forth quite a bit so pay attention to the chapter titles. So many things happened out of order that re-reading it was the best way to make sure I hadn't missed anything. And you know what? I had totally missed some stuff- really good stuff.
Ms. Morgenstern has written a beautiful novel with layers upon layers of story. Each bit leads to the next and has it's beginnings in another. It is a kind of literary labyrinth all it's own. The characters are richly described, the settings are dreamlike. Each of the five senses is fulfilled and yet also wanting more. I am seriously in love with this book.
Le Cirque des Reves, as the circus is named, is only open at nightfall and closes with the dawn. It is far from the Ringling Brothers circus you may picture when you hear the word "circus." Everything from the tops of the tents to the dust at your feet is colored in shades of black, white and gray including the performers' costumes and even the food wrappings. There are acrobats and big cats and a fortune teller, but no elephants and no clowns. There isn't one large tent with three rings in the center, but lots of small tents with winding paths leading from one to another. What the devoted followers of the circus don't realize is that much of the magic and illusion that makes up the atmosphere isn't a trick. Two actual magicians practice genuine enchantment and the circus isn't purely for entertainment. It is the stage for a competition between two philosophies of illusion. The competition has no clear rules, and the players aren't sure what they need to do to win. And then there is the fact that they may be falling in love with one another. I will leave it there because I would hate to ruin it for you. It is just so wonderful!
I know I have recommended books before, but I must insist you read this one. I insist! Meanwhile I will be looking for a red scarf so that I can dress as a true reveur!
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