I read this with my book club and really liked the book better than the movie, though they did a decent job with the movie. You really have to suspend your disbelief in a few places in things the characters do but overall was a good read. Fascinating look at the circus life; horrifying treatment of animals.

Great book!

I thought this was a great book that kept your attention till the end. It gives you a true glimpse into the world of 1920's circus era. Everyone goes to see the circus, but behind the scenes can be more exciting and drama filled than the actual show. I would recommend that others should pick up and read this book too.

Ok so the movie was terrible. The book was lovely. Fascinating and emotional it brought forth a lot of real emotion.

Do not let the movie stop you from reading this book. The entire love story and plot was really heartwarming and written very well. The only downside is that it did lag in some parts, but overall, great read!

The book is always better than the movie

This book was not as good as the movie but it was an interesting read.

I really enjoyed this book. I read it after I saw the movie because I liked the movie and I had some friends recommend the book to me. I thought the book was better than the movie.

Loved the book, except for the ending, I needed a little bit more. I have not seen the movie, because I did not want to ruin the book!

This movie (if it's the right one I'm thinking of) is beyond amazing! I'd watch it over and over!

Very interesting story - kept my attention through the book.

I had the book before the movie came out. Great story and well cast. I like the book more than the movie but thoroughly enjoyed both.

I enjoyed this book. It was different from I usually read and I liked it. It was an easy read. You come to really connect and love (and hate) the characters. The way it is written really allows you to feel what the characters are feeling, smell the circus, feel the fear, have the compassion and of course I do love a happy ending. If you have seen the movie, as with all book to movie endeavors, read the book! It's soooo much better.

Fascinating book! Such an interesting historical view, and a riveting story. Recommend as a gripping read for everyone!

A quick read that takes you on a journey of another time. Maybe it was the characters or the setting, but it reminded me a lot of Big Fish for some reason.