
Reach for this book when your child is facing a new challenge that feels bigger than their usual confidence, especially if they are grappling with performance anxiety or the fear of looking foolish in front of peers. While Lola Levine is usually a fearless soccer player who loves getting her hands dirty, she is blindsided by intense stage fright during her school play auditions. This relatable story follows Lola as she navigates the disappointment of a minor role and learns how to channel her nervous energy into something creative. Lola's journey is anchored by her supportive family and her unique bicultural heritage. The story beautifully illustrates how a child can be many things at once: a competitive athlete, a sensitive artist, and a proud 'Jewina' (Jewish and Latina). Parents will appreciate the way Lola seeks wisdom from her grandmother and the realistic, healthy way the family discusses anxiety and resilience. It is an ideal bridge for early readers moving into chapter books who need to see that even 'fierce' kids get scared sometimes.
The book deals primarily with social anxiety. The approach is direct and secular. The resolution is hopeful and realistic, emphasizing that overcoming fear is a process rather than a one-time fix.
An active, 7 or 8-year-old child who identifies as 'tough' or 'brave' but is currently struggling with a specific fear of public speaking or social evaluation.
This book can be read cold. Parents might want to highlight the scene where Lola talks to her Bubbe, as it models excellent intergenerational communication. A child coming home from school feeling like a failure because they 'choked' during a presentation or performance, or a child expressing that they aren't good at something because they aren't the 'lead.'
Younger readers (6-7) will focus on the humor of the squirrel costume and the fun of the play. Older readers (8-9) will better grasp the complexity of feeling 'fierce' and 'scared' at the same time, perhaps also recognizing the unique strengths that come from Lola's diverse background.
Lola Levine stands out by subverting the 'shy kid' trope. Usually, books about stage fright feature naturally quiet protagonists. Seeing a loud, athletic, 'gross-stuff-loving' girl struggle with anxiety is refreshing and necessary for breaking down stereotypes about what anxiety looks like. """
Lola Levine is known for her boldness on the soccer field, but when auditions for the class play, 'The Princess and the Pea,' arrive, she freezes up. Her stage fright leads to her being cast in a non-speaking role as Squirrel #2. Initially crushed, Lola must manage her disappointment and performance anxiety. With the help of her Bubbe and her own creative spirit, she learns to embrace her small part. On opening night, when a classmate experiences their own moment of panic, Lola steps up to save the show in a way that is uniquely hers.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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