Plot Summary

A Living Nightmare

Darren Shan
Guide cover placeholder

A Living Nightmare

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2000

Book Brief

Darren Shan

A Living Nightmare

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2000
Book Details
Pages

266

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Publication Year

2000

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

650L

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Super Short Summary

Cirque Du Freak: A Living Nightmare by Darren Shan follows the adventures of a boy named Darren, who finds himself drawn into the dark and mysterious world of a freak show. This first book in the Cirque Du Freak series introduces themes of friendship, bravery, and the supernatural.

Dark

Mysterious

Unnerving

Suspenseful

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.3

63,608 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Reviews of Darren Shan’s Cirque Du Freak: A Living Nightmare praise its gripping plot and engaging characters, making it a thrilling read for young adults. Critics commend its unique take on vampires, though some note that the writing style can feel simplistic. Overall, it's celebrated for its fast pace and dark, imaginative world.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Living Nightmare?

Cirque Du Freak: A Living Nightmare by Darren Shan captivates middle-grade to young adult readers who enjoy dark fantasy and horror. Readers of Goosebumps by R.L. Stine and Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling, who appreciate supernatural adventures and coming-of-age themes, will find this series exhilarating.

4.3

63,608 ratings

75%

Loved it

19%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

266

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Contemporary

Publication Year

2000

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

650L

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