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- đȘThe Travelling CircusđȘ
đȘThe Travelling CircusđȘ
Introducing The Travelling Circus, the best selling, multi-award-winning children's book by Mark Watson
The Travelling Circus, my third children's book, was published in 2015.
Initially, I aimed to create a 'scary' children's book, but I soon realized I could achieve something with even more impact. Instead, I crafted a children's book that appears perfectly ordinary to a child but transforms into the scariest story in the world for adults! A book one might discover in a dentist's waiting roomâan adult reads it, furrows their brow, questioning if they've truly grasped it, yet retaining the ability to dream of venturing into enchanting realms without hesitation.
"What initially appears to be a straightforward tale delivers a sinister twist that is certain to capture kiddy imaginations, as will the sumptuous artwork with its eye-catching detail, richly atmospheric colour palette, and excellent use of light and shade. Kids will be happily enraptured, but be warned: their mummies and daddies might feel icy fingers tickling their spines!"
: Science fiction author, winner of the 2010 Philip K. Dick Award
"The detailed, spectacular and vibrantly colored illustrations make this original and gifted story come to life with a special magic. Mark Watson's children's books are a must read for all children."
Jackie Ferrell: Readers' Favorite
"This is what the little ones want - stunning illustrations and a magical, exciting story. Mark Watsonâs âThe Travelling Circusâ is his best yet, and really raises the bar for childrenâs authors.
A little boy receives an unexpected present, which turns out to be much more than just a toy. What starts out as pure joy, ends up with a valuable lesson that things are not always what they seem.
One of the most visually exciting books Iâve seen in a long time."
Rick Smith: Best selling author and publisher
The Artwork
The original concept art for this book was done by Pablo Michau, the artist Iâd worked with on my two previous books, Milo & Ze and The Shark in the Park.
Unfortunately, life got in the way and I had to use various different artists to complete The Travelling Circus, including the incredible Max Rambaldi as colourist.
The cover inks were skillfully done by my friend and long-time collaborator, the Marvel and DC artist, Drew Geraci.
đȘ The Travelling Circus đȘ
By Mark Watson
The little boyâs biggest and best present,
was an awesome, fold-out circus tent.
He put it up and played in it all day,
flatly refusing to tidy it away.
In the middle of the night, when all were sleeping sweetly,
music came into his dreams, although he slept so deeply.
He tossed and turned and mumbled, then in his sleep he spoke,
âThe Circus is in town!â And with that he awokeâŠ
He rubbed his eyes and shook his head,
fairylights were on his bed!
On the top, down the side and along the floor they went,
like softly glowing fallen stars, leading to the tentâŠ
Again he rubbed his eyes, again he shook his head,
then he found the Circus folk, were standing by his bed!
The poor, surprised little boy, could only sit and stare,
as a human cannonball shot through the air!
The boy couldnât believe his eyes, it seemed that all were there,
lions, tigers, acrobats and, of course, a dancing bear!
He smelled cotton candy sandwiches with ice cream inside,
burgers, fries, hotdogs and toffee apples on the side.
The ringmaster came closer and bending down,
whisperedâŠ
âItâs time to move on, itâs time to leave town.
Oh what wonderful sights youâll see
If you come with us in our magic marqueeâŠ
Each night we perform in different places,
for Highnesses, Lords, Dukes and âYour Gracesââ.
The ringmaster smiled and held out his hand,
âAnd three times a year by Royal Command.â
âCome into the tent, a new day is dawning,
The Travelling Circus is gone by morning.â
The smells, the lights, the atmosphere.
The boy got up, he felt no fear.
Hand in hand to the tent they walked,
followed by the circus folk.
He felt a little dizzy, the room started to spin.
The Ringmaster smiled, then gently ushered him in.
The sun came up like always, but in the morning light,
the room looked very different that it had looked last night.
The floor was bare of even a toy.
The tent had gone
and so had the boy.
Thank you for reading, please let me know if you enjoyed the story in the comments below andâŠ
Please support the author by purchasing YOUR copy of đȘThe Travelling CircusđȘ from AmazonâŠ
Once again, thank you for reading.
Your time and curiosity are truly appreciated. Stay tuned for more exciting content and stories.
Until next time!
All the best,Mark đ€©
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