The Young Acrobat of the Great North American Circus

by Horatio Alger

"The Young Acrobat of the Great North American Circus" by Horatio Alger Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. This coming-of-age story follows the adventures of Kit Watson, a young boy whose aspirations and circumstances lead him to join the circus, defying his previous expectations of wealth and social standing. The narrative centers on themes of friendship, ambition, and self-discovery against the vibrant backdrop of a traveling circus. The opening of the novel introduces Kit and his friend Dan Clark as they eagerly await the arrival of Barlow's Great American Circus in their town of Smyrna. Excitement builds as they discuss the extravagance of the circus and their hopes to attend its performances. However, Kit learns that he is no longer going to attend boarding school, as his uncle Stephen has decided to apprentice him to a blacksmith instead. Kit's discontent with the arrangement compels him to consider a different path, paving the way for his decision to join the circus. With a chance encounter with circus performers and an unexpected act of bravery involving a lion, Kit takes a significant step towards fulfilling his dreams.