Little Boy with a Big Horn

Reach for this book when your child's natural enthusiasm or noisy interests are causing friction at home or school. If you have found yourself constantly saying 'please be quiet' to a child who is just trying to master a new skill, this story offers a much-needed bridge of empathy. It validates the frustration of being told you are 'too much' while celebrating the persistence required to find one's place in the world. Ollie is a young boy who loves his tuba, but his practice is a nuisance to everyone around him. When he seeks solitude on the ocean to play in peace, his loud music ends up becoming a life-saving signal for a ship in distress. This classic tale from the 1950s, updated with vibrant retro illustrations, helps children ages 4 to 8 understand that their unique talents have value, even if they aren't appreciated by everyone right away. It is an excellent choice for building self-confidence and discussing how to balance personal passions with the needs of a community.