Peck's Bad Boy with the Circus

An irrepressible teenager decides to keep a diary of his summer with his father, who has just taken on the role of manager for a traveling circus. The boy’s promise to his mother to record every incident sets the stage for a lively chronicle of life under the big top, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary. From the moment they arrive, the youngster’s boundless energy and love of practical jokes turn the quiet backstage into a playground of chaos.

He teases clowns, tangles with a mischievous monkey, and even tries his hand at trapeze tricks, all while his exasperated dad becomes the unwitting target of every prank. The narrative captures the colorful cast of performers, the oddities of exotic animals, and the endless scramble to keep the show running. With quick wit and vivid illustrations, the story offers a breezy, laughter‑filled glimpse into a summer where mischief and circus magic collide.