Hattie in the Spotlight

Reach for this book when your child is facing a big performance, a first day of school, or any situation where they feel their confidence wavering under the pressure of being noticed. It is an ideal choice for children who are naturally creative but struggle with the physical sensations of performance anxiety, often described as having butterflies in their tummy. The story follows Hattie, a young frog who loves to sing and act but finds the reality of a live audience quite daunting. As she prepares for the Oak Orchard talent show, Hattie navigates the relatable tension between wanting to share her talent and wanting to hide. Through Hattie's journey, Poppy Green provides a gentle framework for processing stage fright and the value of practice and peer support. It is a comforting, low-stakes read for the elementary years that validates a child's fears while celebrating their eventual success.