The Night Circus - The beginning

The Night Circus - Lexile Level: 950

I just started to read The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern.  When I first decided to choose this book for my reading list, I was apprehensive, as it is a book written for an adult audience.  However, this book was mentioned to be interesting for teens as well.  As I began reading, I could see how this book could be easily enjoyed by young adults as well as adults. 
The Night Circus is a 2012 Alex Award Winning book.  The Alex Awards are given yearly through the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA).  These awards are given to "to ten books written for adults that have special appeal to young adults, ages 12 through 18."  I think that it is very important for young adults to be exposed to writing that is intended for adults, not in the sense of context, but by writing style.  Young adults are inundated with so many books that center around middle/high school writing styles that are simplified for reading, so they are not exposed to more challenging vocabulary that could truly improve their learning, testing, and general understanding in all areas.  The fact that YALSA takes the time to give out awards for books that are able to transcend adult/young adult reading levels, shows how they value the importance of young adult exposure to challenging reading. 
The Night Circus circles around two magicians, Mr. A.H. and Prospero the Enchanter,  and their young apprentices, Marco and Celia.  However, these are no ordinary magicians.  Though Prospero veils his natural abilities with magic by performing with a circus, he quickly shows that he is more than just a stage act.  He has a long-standing rivalry with Mr. A.H, a mysterious acquaintance that he has known for many years.  The author has yet to unveil the reason behind their rivalry, but when Prospero discovers that he has a daughter, Celia, he decides to rekindle their competitive sides.  Celia has the same natural gift for magic as Prospero.  Prosporo challenges Mr. A.H. to a magical duel between his daughter, and a contender that Mr. A.H. will choose himself.  Marco, a young orphan, is taken in by Mr. A.H. and is being groomed to compete in this magical duel that he does not yet understand.  The competition will take place sometime in the not-so-distant future.  For now, Celia and Marco are subjected to unconventional training that will prepare them for this event.
As I continue to read, I will share my thoughts and important information regarding the book.  I am looking forward to continuing to read The Night Circus, and look forward to finding out who will win, Marco or Celia!!



References

YALSA's Alex Awards | Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA). (n.d.). American Library Association. Retrieved October 20, 2012, from http://www.ala.org/yalsa/booklists/alex