About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child is feeling anxious about an upcoming school play, music recital, or any kind of performance. It gently addresses the common fear of getting up in front of a crowd and the pressure to be perfect. The story follows Brother and Sister Bear as they prepare for the Bear Country School talent show. Sister is a natural performer, but Brother, despite his talent for magic, gets a serious case of stage fright. With Papa Bear's simple and wise advice, the cubs learn that the most important thing isn't winning, but having the courage to try your best. This classic tale is perfect for preschoolers and early elementary students (ages 4-8), offering a comforting and relatable narrative that normalizes nervousness and celebrates personal effort over competition.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The primary theme is performance anxiety (stage fright). The book addresses this directly, naming the physical sensations like a "funny feeling in the pit of his stomach." The approach is secular and gentle. The resolution is very hopeful, reframing success as personal growth and effort rather than external validation like winning a prize.
Ideal Reader
A 5 to 7-year-old facing their first piano recital, school play, or even a show-and-tell presentation. It's for the child who is talented but shy, and who equates making a mistake with total failure. It also resonates with siblings who have different levels of confidence.
Reviews
No reviews yet — be the first!
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review
