About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is facing a performance, a talent show, or any public moment that feels overwhelming due to shyness. It is particularly helpful for kids who tend to withdraw into their own world and need a gentle, humorous nudge to engage with their peers. The story follows Ella, a quiet girl whose life changes when she gets a boisterous beagle named Trumpet. As she prepares for a school talent show, she must navigate the embarrassment and unpredictability that comes with a loud pet. Through the lens of responsible pet ownership, the book explores themes of self-confidence, anxiety, and finding one's own voice. It is a lighthearted, age-appropriate choice for middle grade readers (ages 8 to 12) that validates the fear of being 'different' or 'loud' while celebrating the growth that comes from stepping outside one's comfort zone. Parents will appreciate how it models perseverance through relatable, low-stakes social challenges.
