The circus coming to town was once the pinnacle of excitement for children in many small towns. Jill Esbaum captures the sense of anticipation and awe in a picture book set in the early 1900s. Benny and his friend Sam race the circus train as it rolls into the rail yard and are soon eyewitnesses to the hustle and bustle of activity. There’s even an odd job or two for them, hauling water and hay for the elephants that help raise the big top and setting up the bleacher seats under that canvas dome. They earn a nickel each and a pair of tickets to the show that will follow after the circus parade marches through town. Benny spends his nickel on a candy apple; Sam spends his on popcorn that he doesn’t want to share. The brief drama of a lost ticket is resolved with an act of friendship in a story that chronicles “the best day ever” for two boys. David Gordon’s illustrations contrast the dazzling colors of the circus wagons and costumed performers with more subdued hues depicting the people and buildings in the boys’ hometown and the hard work of setting up the circus. (Ages 4–7)

When the circus comes to Willow Grove, Benny and Sam are in for more excitement than they can shake a stick at: elephants and acrobats, candied apples and a calliope, even a snake enchantress. They can’t think of anything better than helping the circus men set up for the grand event – until the Big Top boss gives them two tickets for the show! But then Sam’s ticket disappears, and it’s up to Benny to save the best day ever.

A tribute to the great occasions and small gestures that children will remember for a lifetime, this boisterous tale about fun and friendship is enlivened by David Gordon’s jubilant illustrations.

To the Big Top is a 2009 Bank Street - Best Children's Book of the Year.