Description

The Most Perilous Sideshow is a middle-grade historical fantasy that blends magic, mystery, and resilience during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl era. Once lifted from the hardships of rural Oklahoma by a magical traveling box, Sophie Mae was given a new home and a future full of possibility. But even in a world shaped by magic, the past has a way of lingering.

Now living inside a magical estate where residents thrive despite the widespread hunger, unemployment, and uncertainty of the 1930s, Sophie faces a new challenge. A powerful magician has created a growth potion capable of restoring failing farmland—an innovation that could offer hope far beyond the estate’s walls. When a secret informant steals the potion’s formula, the magic sustaining this sanctuary is put at risk.

Tasked with uncovering the mole before the secret is exposed, Sophie must confront questions of identity, trust, and belonging. Her investigation tests her leadership and forces her to reckon with the life she left behind—and whether it has truly released its hold on her.

Fast-paced and rich with memorable characters, this illustrated-ready chapter book is ideal for readers ages 8–12. As the third installment in the Sophie Mae Adventures series, it supports classroom and library use both as a continuation of the series and as a discussion-rich companion to units on:

• The Great Depression and Dust Bowl
• Ethical responsibility and secrecy
• Community resilience and cooperation
• Identity, memory, and personal growth

Recommended for fans of The Marvels by Brian Selznick, The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani, and The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, this novel invites students to explore how hope, courage, and teamwork can flourish—even in the hardest of times.

Reviews

Amazon Review

“This story goes into a little more history or past of the various characters and George who continues to work on his potions. But all is not as it seems as there maybe a traitor in the bunch. This another quick and interesting read as you follow the group. I look forward to the next book.⁣”

Retailers & Links

• Amazon
• Barnes & Noble

Meta Data

• ASIN: B0F92D8L5R
• Publisher: Two Turkey Publishing, LLC
• Publication date: February 25, 2021
• Pages: 210
• Genre: HIstorical Fiction
• ISBN: 978-1735907239
• Formats: eBook, Paperback, Hardcover
• Language: English
• Item Weight: 7.2 ounces
• Reading age: 9-12 years
• Dimensions: 5.25 x 0.53 x 8 inches