Sammy feels shy by Tom Percival

The series of book by Tom Percival called Big Bright Feelings are shown on the inside back cover, and includes books such as Finn’s little fibs and Ravi’s roar, each produced as a springboard for discussions about feelings.

Sammy feels shy is the most recent book and is obviously about shyness, especially when Sammy is asked to talk in front of others.

Sammy loves to have fun. Especially with his father, but at school when his teacher asks him a question, he becomes aware that everyone is looking at him, waiting for his answer. And his face turns pink. At a birthday party he sings the wrong word in happy birthday and again everyone looks at him, saying he is so shy. He turns pink all over. He tells his dad about his problem, and dad takes him to the fair, but here he is embarrassed and begins to turn pink and runs away. A girl from school, Lily, asks him if he scared too. He says no, he is scared of the number of people. The two decide to overcome their problem together. Sammy does not feel shy with her. First they get some fairy floss, then have a ride on the spinning teacups and finally the helter skelter. But a group from school appears and Sammy’s face turns pink. Lily reassures him with a hand on his shoulder reminding him that they are there to have fun. He calls for the group to follow him onto the helter skelter and they follow.

His pink days are over. He has shown the group that he may feel a bit funny sometimes but can still enjoy himself. The object is to do what he loves, not worry about those around him, increasing his self confidence and resilience.

A good discussion starter.

Themes: Shyness, Confidence, Friendship, Humour, Resilience.

Fran Knight