Don’t Put Yourself Down in Circus Town
Frank J. Sileo, Author
Sue Cornelison, Illustrator
Magination Press, Fiction, Feb. 28, 2015
Suitable for Ages: 4-8
Themes: Building self-confidence, Making mistakes, Developing positive beliefs
Opening: Ringmaster Rick was excited for the big show at Circus Town! He visited the big tent to see all the performers practicing their acts.
Book Jacket Synopsis: Welcome to Circus Town, where it’s okay to bumble, stumble, and fumble. But no put downs! Give yourself a break! Everyone makes mistakes! Join Ringmaster Rick, Larry the Lion Tamer, Polka Dot Patti, and world-famous trapeze artists Jan and Juanita as they practice more, ask for help, think helpful thoughts, and bounce back from mistakes and mishaps to feel more confident!
Why I like this book:
Ringmaster Rick calls an emergency meeting after overhearing Circus Town’s several performers put themselves down for mistakes made while rehearsing their acts. “I’m the worst lion tamer…I can’t do this!…I am such a loser!…I’m such a klutz!…” Does this self-defeating statement sound familiar? This realistic story about making mistakes is something children can relate to as they participate in sports, dance, painting/drawing, practicing a musical instruments, helping in the kitchen and doing chores. I especially resonate with author Frank Sileo’s themes, “anyone can make a mistake and that self-defeating behavior is like bullying yourself.” Sue Cornelison’s illustrations are bold, colorful and very expressive. They set the mood for the story and change as the story progresses. This is another important book for parents to have at home and for teachers to put on their bookshelves to help boost self-esteem in children. Well done!
Resources: The book includes a Note to Parents and Other Caregivers with more information and strategies for fostering self-confidence in children and helping them develop positive feelings and beliefs about themselves.
Children's Books Heal 
Aw, this would be so good for kids with perfectionist tendencies. Love the message because it’s so true: everyone makes mistakes!!
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Yes, it is a great book for kids who strive fore perfection. It’s a fun story about making mistakes.
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Pat, I agree with Nancy above. This sounds like a great book for kids who are perfectionists. Great review!
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Thanks Robin. It is good for kids who are perfectionists.
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Looks like a “mindset” gem for my collection. Why do we beat ourselves up when mistakes are so vital to our learning and growth? Perfect pick, Patricia! Happy Thanksgiving from your Texas fans!
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Yes, so true. It’s a good book for parents too! Perfection is not what we should aim for. Thanks for your comments. Happy Thanksgiving to you!
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I also agree with Nancy! Most of us tend to beat ourselves up for even minor things but it’s especially bad for those who are perfectionists.
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And, I know parents many perfectionists and play a role in their child’s behavior. This is a good family book!
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Oh wow! I could use this for myself. You should hear me when I’m practicing my piano haha!
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Yes, I’m sure we are all guilty at times of exhibiting perfectionist behavior, which kids observe. Good family discussion book.
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This book is super important to prevent negative self talk as kids grow up. Turning shoulds into coulds was something I struggled with all my life. And if kids learn early this is self defeating behavior it is a plus for the next generation.
This is a book even adults can learn from . It is never too late to begin self help and what better way than to show through a story like this? And if parents talk to their youngster about what the book is saying it makes doubly valuable.
Thanks so much Patricia for introducing this book to us.
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Your comments resemble my thoughts. Parents and children should read this together.
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I mean stopping or recognizing this self defeating behavior can be a plus. Sorry for the confusion. 🙂
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I understand and totally agree. 🙂
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What a good concept for a picture book, especially since the usual modus operandi these days is to listen to those negative thoughts that come into our minds, telling us it’s not okay to “bumble, stumble, and fumble”. Nice recommendation 🙂
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Glad you enjoyed my recommendation. Agree with your thoughts.
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Yes! This is something we all need to remember ~ to stop being self-defeatist!
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I think we all catch ourselves from time to time being self-defeatist! The negative chatter that runs through our minds that we need to observe and laugh at. Good way to help children.
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I wish there had been a book like this when I was growing up. I certainly could have used it.
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I share your wish! And, I think parents need to be aware. Great family book!
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Yes, this truly is a book all children should read. Sadly, I think it’s a book my daughter’s elementary school teacher should read to be reminded that children aren’t perfect and do make mistakes.
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It’s a book that would be helpful to both parents and teachers, who set the pace. If they act in a self-defeating manner, so will children.
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I’m glad there’s a PB that deals with “making mistakes.” Schools teach our children that mistakes are the worst thing they can make. But mistakes mean your trying.
Thanks for sharing!
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Yes, it really is an important book about making mistakes and finding self-confidence. Love your thoughts.
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Great message to share, Pat. I hope the lion tamer doesn’t make too big a mistake!
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Leave it to you to point out the humor! 🙂
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I know an adult that this would be the perfect gift for, and she loves picture books – thank you!
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That’s great! I love all the suggestions I jot down each Friday.
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Such an evergreen subject for kids. Mistakes are an essential part of growth for kids and adults alike. Thanks for a great review.
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Thank you for your comments. Glad you enjoyed the review.
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maybe that’s what we need to remember: just not to put ourselves in Circus Town! Let the little mistakes go, and move on to the next big trick.
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I like that great comment, Sue.
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This is a wonderful concept and is what kids have often had to deal with alone. Loved your review Pat. Must check this out. A lesson for all.
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Glad you like book. I like the theme that it’s okay to may mistakes!
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That’s an awesome message! I like how the author pulled it off! 🙂
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Yes, it is quite clever with a great message about making mistakes.
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