While performing in a concert, play, or an act for a talent show, can be exciting, it can also be intimidating to many children (and adults!) I’ve found reading about children performing can help open up conversations on how to combat stage fright and better prepare for those show-time jitters.
The below books feature characters overcoming stage fright, working hard to practice for the big day, and being supported by loving family members and friends.
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Something Wild by Molly Ruttan, 2023
(Ages 4 and up)
Hannah loves to play her violin, but she does not love to play in front of other people. The day of her concert, she wishes something wild would happen to prevent her from playing. Playful scenes of Hannah’s imagination as she envisions zany occurrences all day long.
When she gets to the stage she nervously puts her fingers on her violin, she realizes she knows what to do. As she plays, her imagination is unleashed once again, but this time in a beautiful celebration of her music.
Etta Extraordinaire by Roda Ahmed and Charniae Gordon, illustrated by Chloe Burgett, 2023
(Ages 4 and up)
Etta is an exuberant little girl who can’t wait to sing at her school’s talent show. When she begins feeling nervous about never being on a stage, she makes a plan to create a small stage to practice on. All week she works hard preparing for the big show and with the help of her loving parents learns to shine in front of an audience. Etta is a very lovable character and I loved the way she showed perseverance and problem-solving skills. I hope to see more of her adventures.
Find Your Brave by Apryl Stott, 2023
(Ages 4 and up)
In this charming friendship story, a young girl named Coco gets stage fright while practicing a dance routine with her friend Bear. They scour the forest getting advice from other woodland companions until Coco ultimately learns to help her brave feelings grow bigger than her fear.
Georgie Dupree Sharing the Stage by Ceece Kelley, illustrated by Chloe Guevara, 2022
Georgie is overjoyed to perform the play Alice in Wonderland, but is crushed when she doesn’t get the lead role. As a minor part, Georgie has time to work on the backdrops and finds a new place to shine. I just love the way Georgie was able to work through her disappointment and find success in another area.
Tiny T. Rex and the Grand Ta-Da! By Jonathan Stutzman, illustrated by Jay Fleck, 2023
(Ages 3 and up)
Our family loves Tiny T. Rex and this newest installment of this heartwarming series is simply adorable! Tiny teams up with his best friend Pointy to perform magic at their school’s talent show. Through several humorous attempts, they try over and over to make things disappear. What makes this book a real standout is the way these two friends support each other and bravely face their challenges. It’s a real delight!
Too Much! My Great Big Native Family by Laurel Goodluck, illustrated by Bridget George, 2024
(Ages 4 and up)
Russell is elated to earn the leading role in his school play, but when he tries to share the news with his large extended family, no one hears him. He often feels lost in the hustle and bustle of their family. On the night of his show, however, they show up in a big way and Russell realizes that even though his family can sometimes feel like too much, you can never have too much love.
