About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the arrival of a 'new star' in their social or extracurricular circle. It is perfect for the student who has always been the big fish in a small pond but is now facing the humbling reality of someone more talented or experienced entering their space. Eleven-year-old Samantha has always been the best in her ballet class, but her confidence is shaken when Elena, a gifted Russian immigrant, joins the school. As the girls compete for the lead role in the Nutcracker, the story moves beyond simple jealousy to explore how respect for a peer's hard work can bridge the gap between rivals. This is a grounded, realistic look at performance pressure and the complexities of pre-teen friendships. It helps children understand that while being the best is a common goal, sharing a passion with a peer can lead to a deeper, more rewarding connection than competition alone.
