In Erin Morgenstern’s debut novel, “The Night Circus,” imagery reigns supreme in a world of night, magic and dreams. From the very beginning, the story has a way of pulling the reader in — immersing them into a place where they watch the performers in awe. But let it be known, this circus is like no other.
“The towering tents are striped in white and black, no golds and crimsons to be seen. No color at all, save for the neighboring trees and the grass of the surrounding fields. Black-and-white stripes on a grey sky.”
Readers follow the lives of two magicians, Celia and Marco, under the big top. With candid descriptions, Morgenstern creates a fantastical world around readers, inviting them to come one and come all.
Intriguing and engaging all at the same time — this book takes us through the sights and sounds of a traveling circus, as well as the lives behind it.
The story takes place in the late 19th century when the art of theater is still widely popular. However, Morgenstern incorporates different time periods throughout the novel, which can seem unwieldy but she manages to complete in a seamless manner.
The protagonists, Celia and Marco are as individual as their talents. Though both possess the magic of wonderment, the two characters are often pinned against each other to feed into a rivalry that is Le Cirque de Reves.
The source of disagreement between the magicians is largely due to differing beliefs. While one believes magic is an art, something that is a part of us, the other believes magic can be taught.
Through the sequencing of the chapters, readers gain insight into the characters as we follow them separately and in concurrence. But, between dark secrets and animosity, a love story manages to find its way into the novel — one that is not easily forgotten even in the final pages.
The novel conveys imagination for readers who have long since forgotten the magic of their childhood in a place that “opens at nightfall and closes at dawn.” Specifically, the novel is Morgenstern’s success in being able to bring forth a fairytale for adults.
Stylistically, even considering the magical nature of the circus, Morgenstern writes in a detailed and succinct manner — rarely ever boring the reader with superfluous descriptions, but instead, embracing her eccentricity as a writer.
Morgenstern’s storytelling is both a gift and a curse for the reader. Certainly while “The Night Circus” was a brilliant debut, fans will find it hard not to grow impatient for what she may have up her sleeve next.
Rating: W W W W W
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