Stepping into the Spotlight: A Review of Emily Was So Embarrassed

While she was staying with us over the weekend, my granddaughter and I dove into Michelle Olson’s charming tale about Emily, a little girl with a secret talent for ribbon dancing. However, Emily’s biggest challenge isn’t her dance moves; it’s her fear of performing in front of others. She worries about making mistakes and being laughed at, preferring the safety of her room where no eyes are on her.

The illustrations in this book are just as engaging as the story, filled with cute and expressive drawings that perfectly capture Emily’s emotions—from her joyful twirls in solitude to her anxious expressions at the thought of public performance. My granddaughter adored the visuals, commenting on how “cute” each page looked.

The heart of the story lies in its message about overcoming fear and the importance of friendship. When Emily’s best friend invites her to join her in the talent show, it sets off a flurry of mixed emotions. The story beautifully describes Emily’s internal struggle and eventual courage to step out of her comfort zone.

Together, my granddaughter and I were touched by the story’s gentle lesson on bravery and self-acceptance. It’s a book that not only entertains but also imparts a significant life lesson in a way that’s accessible and relatable for young children. We both agreed—this book deserves four stars for its delightful narrative and the sweet morals it shares. It would have been closer to 5 stars, but she prefers nonfiction.

Rating: ★★★★☆

** Thank you to the author and the publisher for a complimentary copy. The opinions are my own.

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