About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child feels their role on a team is unimportant or is struggling to see the value of cooperation. "Behind the Scenes" pulls back the curtain on a school production, showing that the actors on stage are only part of the story. The book follows a group of students as they write, build, practice, and perform, highlighting the essential contributions of the set painters, the lighting crew, and everyone in between. It beautifully illustrates themes of teamwork, creative problem-solving, and the joy that comes from a shared achievement. It's a wonderful tool for children ages 5 to 9 to build empathy and appreciate the hard work that makes amazing things happen, boosting the confidence of any child, whether they are in the spotlight or supporting from the wings.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
There are no sensitive topics in this book. The conflicts are minimal and low-stakes, such as minor disagreements about creative choices or small backstage mishaps. These issues are consistently resolved through positive communication, compromise, and teamwork, presenting an idealized but useful model for collaboration.
Ideal Reader
The ideal reader is a 6 to 8-year-old who is part of a team (school project, sports, a club) and needs help understanding the value of their specific role, especially if it is not a starring one. It is also an excellent choice for a classroom teacher to read before starting a large group project to proactively model collaboration.
