Scaredy Book
Devon Sillett, Author
Cara King, Illustrator
EK Books, Fiction, May 8, 2018
Suitable for Ages: 4-8
Themes: Shyness, Anxiety, New experiences, Comfort zones, Library, Friendship, Bravery
Opening: “Book was full of potential. But sometimes, a pinch of pizzazz, a sprinkling of gumption and a drop of courage come in handy. Book wished to have all those things. But Library was very, very comfortable.”
Synopsis:
Book longs for adventure but is too scared to leave the library. The library is warm, peaceful and safe. Book desperately wants to go outside and feel the sunlight on his pages, but is intimidated by what might happen “out there.” A page might be torn. Book’s cover might get dirty. Book might never be returned to the library! Book watches from his nook what happens to other returning books. He comes close a few times to letting go.
Meanwhile, Emma loves visiting the library, going on great adventures and exploring the world in the stories she reads. When Emma meets Book, they find they are just what each other needs. Together, Book and Emma move out of their comfort zone to try new things, meet new people and enjoy quiet adventures — climbing trees, laughing in the rain, and cheering the players at a soccer match. Along the way they discover that “out there” needn’t be scary if you just take it one step at a time.
Why I like this book:
Devon Sillett skillfully captures the vulnerability of his main character, Book, who is frightened of just about everything. He is bound to win over readers with his originality and clever wit. Who every heard of a scared book? Children will be captivated by Book’s pursuit to be brave, especially those who are nervous about taking risks and stepping outside of their comfort zone.
When Emma returns Book to the library, it isn’t in the same condition that it left. There are a few crumbs in the pages, a smudge on a page, and a splash of water in the ink. In fact Book is proud of its new battle scars, a mark of its bravery.
What a sensational cover! Cara King combines delicately textured and warmly hued watercolors to show Book’s strong desire to try new things and its struggle to take the first step. Make sure you check out the endpapers, as they carry a story of their own.
Resources: This is a great discussion book to have on hand when your child is trying something new, like going to school, attending a sleepover, trying new foods, and learning to ride a bike without training wheels. And it is a good book to remind parents that they have to let go and let their child try.
Devon Sillett is the author of The Leaky Story, her debut picture book, Saying Goodbye to Barkley. She is a former radio producer, turned writer and reviewer. Born in the US, Devon now calls Australia home. She has loved books as long as she can remember — so much so that she even married her husband Matthew in a library! Currently, she teaches in the writing department at the University of Canberra, where she is also a PhD student, researching Australian children’s picture books. If she isn’t writing or reading, you’ll find her playing Lego or hide-and-seek with her two young sons, Jay and Aaron.
Every Friday, authors and KidLit bloggers post a favorite picture book. To see a complete listing of all the Perfect Picture Books (PPB) with resources, please visit author Susanna Leonard Hill’s website.
*Review copy provided by the publisher.
Children's Books Heal 
What a clever concept. Kids will relate to it as it is hard for them to leave their comfort zone.
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Yes, I think kids will definitely relate to BOOK! Such a great story about bravery! I donated my copy along with many other picture books about relaxation, yoga, mindfulness to our Children’s Hospital.
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Great find! What a unique way to address such a universal problem and encourage kids to treat library books with care. I’ll be on the lookout for it, and Sillett’s other #PBs.
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Yes, it is a clever concept! I love the cover and BOOK’s journey!
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That is a great cover. But you had me at “pizzazz.” I do so love that word.
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Yes me too! The cover will really grab kid’s attention — it is so large. I donated this book about bravery along with other relaxation and yoga picture books to our Children’s Hospital.
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It’s challenging to come up with fresh characters to help children through their problems. I love the accessibility of Book. I’m looking forward to reading this one.
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It is challenging to write something fresh and new — and this is perfect for kids who are shy and afraid to try new things.
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This book would pair perfectly with another new book — THIS BOOK IS SPINELESS. (a book that’s afraid of what its story might be)! Thanks for sharing this one.
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Oh, thank you for the recommendation! I’ll have to check out the book!
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What an interesting concept for a picture book. And an eye-catching cover!
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Yes, I loved the concept. It will encourage and cheer a lot of shy kids.
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Oh, this is so, so brilliant! I’ve got to get this one! Thank you!
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Yes, it is such a brilliant idea for a picture book.
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I am afraid just like Book. In my old house, I used to be afraid of box fans in people’s windows. When we moved to our new apartment, I was afraid of the fire extinguisher in the hallway. Now Mom doesn’t have to carry me past it anymore. #bravedoggie
Love and licks,
Cupcake
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I am glad you were brave, Cupcake. Archie doesn’t like manhole covers or storm drains.
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This is a very interesting concept. One that would hit home for a number of kids (and their adults). Thanks for the fun review.
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This wonderful book will appeal to many children. Since it is about learning to be brave, I donated my copy (and other books) to our Children’s Hospital.
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Lovely interesting concept. Thanks for sharing Pat.
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I am delighted you enjoyed the book!
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This sounds like such a great book! I will add it to my list to check out.
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I made sure my library ordered a copy. It is sad that it had to be written, but it is inspiring!
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I think I’ve read other reviews of this book, Patricia, and they’ve all praised it as highly as you have. It sounds like a good one for initiating discussions with anxious children.
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The cover certainly grabs your attention! Such a clever way to help timid kids.
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