TOO SHY TO SAY HI

A youngster takes timid steps toward making a friend.

Shelli gets nervous around others. The thought of speaking up causes Shelli’s insides to twist. Even a neighbor’s wave from afar is a cause for concern: “What if I imagined it? / Should I tell her ‘hi?’ ” Shelli’s internal dialogue spins out of control. But one day, the shy tot has had enough. “I stare at myself in the mirror. / I wave and just say hi. / It feels a little silly, / but I know I want to try. // In the morning I decide: / Today will be the day! / I’m going to find the courage / to be friendly in small ways.” Shelli begins with one simple—yet still so difficult—question: “Is anyone sitting here?” With great pluck (and confidence from practicing in front of the mirror), Shelli makes a new friend. Nakata’s wispy, light brush strokes match the emotional impact of Shelli’s uncertainty, shimmering and delicate across the page. Two pages of backmatter about social anxiety, along with coping tricks for children, are appended to aid caregivers of shy kids. Shelli presents White, and surrounding classmates are a happy mix; Shelli’s newfound friend has dark skin. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10-by-16-inch double-page spreads viewed at 56.3% of actual size.)

Echoes the inner thoughts some anxious children may have, hopefully making them feel less alone.