Song of the circus
by Lois Duncan
Philomel Books 2002
Great fit for 3rd grade
Reading level and content both target K–3rd grade · ages 5–9
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Genre
Themes
- wonder and imagination
- performance and showmanship
- teamwork
- bravery
- celebration of the arts
- community
- rhythm and sound
- animals
About this book
This lyrical picture book celebrates the sights and sounds of a traveling circus, from daring acrobats to prancing horses under the big top. Lois Duncan’s rhythmic, read‑aloud text invites young readers to join the parade, hear the music, and feel the excitement of showtime. Vivid illustrations capture the sparkle, movement, and color that make the circus magical. Perfect for storytime, it delights kids who love rhyme, performance, and lively, sensory scenes.
Setting: a traveling big-top circus
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Song of the circus right for my child?
Yes — Song of the circus is a great fit for 3rd grade. The reading level is AR 3.3, which is typical for 3rd grade. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3), meaning the themes and content are designed for ages 5–9 (K–3rd grade). Themes include wonder and imagination, performance and showmanship, teamwork.
How long does it take to read Song of the circus?
At a typical 3rd grade reading pace, Song of the circus takes around 4m to finish. The book has 600 words. Slower or faster readers may vary significantly.
Does Song of the circus have an AR quiz?
Yes — Song of the circus has an AR quiz available, worth 0.5 points. Your child will need to take and pass the quiz through their school's Accelerated Reader program to earn credit. The quiz is typically 5–20 multiple choice questions about plot, characters, and setting.
What grade level is Song of the circus?
Song of the circus has an AR reading level of 3.3, which places it at a 3rd grade reading difficulty. The interest level is rated Lower Grades (K–3) — this reflects the age-appropriateness of the content and themes, not just the reading difficulty. A strong younger reader may handle the words fine while the themes are aimed at an older audience, or vice versa.