Show Stopper

"Show Stopper" by Hayley Barker is a young adult fantasy novel set in a dystopian near-future England. The story revolves around Hoshiko, a talented tightrope walker who's part of a traveling circus where children from poor backgrounds are forced to perform under harsh conditions. These children, known as "Dregs," are exploited by the ruling class, or "Pures," who visit the circus for entertainment. Hoshiko's life takes a dramatic turn when she meets Ben, the son of a government minister responsible for controlling the Dregs. Despite their different backgrounds, they form a connection and join forces to escape the circus and challenge the brutal system. The novel explores themes of oppression, rebellion, and the struggle for freedom, drawing comparisons to "The Hunger Games" due to its depiction of children forced into dangerous performances for the entertainment of the wealthy and powerful. With its dark and suspenseful tone, "Show Stopper" is a gripping read that critiques societal class divisions and the exploitation of the underprivileged The ringmaster of the Cirque, Silvio Sabatini is a Dreg who believes himself to be Pure and he enjoys torturing the Dreg children Characters: Dregs: Hoshiko Amina Greta Emmanuel Kate Ezekiel Astrid Luna Anatol Silvio Pures: Ben Francais Vivian Roger Stanley Jack