It's 1923 and Leroy is on the run from a couple of abusive cousins. He stumbles into a traveling Chautauqua show, where it's easy to get lost in a crowd—but also easy to lose your heart. This funny and endearing novel by Governor General's Award-winning novelist Glen Huser will make an absorbing read for fourteen- and fifteen-year-olds, boys and girls alike.
"Intrigue, romance and fun leaven this tale of a good-hearted runaway boy beginning to find his way in the world.
This likable protagonist makes for a fine introduction to an era before movies and radio caused the Chautauqua to fade away."
– Kirkus Reviews
"Readers will find the story of the Chautauqua entertaining."
– School Library Journal
"This first-person account by a good-hearted hero is the perfect guide through a charming and little-known piece of Americana. The style is plainsong poetry, and the story both evocative and heartrending. Highly recommended."
– Historical Novel Society
"Huser's writing style is simple with a vocabulary that is interesting without being too challenging. This piece of historical fiction vividly captures 1920s America through the heartwarming story of a young man who has lost everything...I would definitely recommend this book to both middle school and high school aged teens."
– Southwest Ohio and Neighboring Libraries (SWON)
Resource Links "The Year's Best" | 2011 | Commended
BC and Yukon Book Prizes - Sheila A. Egoff Children's Literature Prize | 2012 | Short-listed
Chocolate Lily Book Awards | 2013 | Short-listed
Hackmatack Award | 2012 | Short-listed
CCBC Best Books for Kids and Teens | 2012 |
