Ready for the Spotlight!

Praise

Bright watercolor and digital art centers mercurial Tessie’s reactions to great effect, adding wonderfully wrought physical humor to this refreshing tale of perseverance, growth, and tender sibling bonds.
—Publishers Weekly

Kim’s accessible illustrations set a colorful stage for a sweet social-emotional story. With her spiky pageboy, distinct frown, and downturned black eyebrows, Tessie’s emotions take center stage in a familiar and recognizable way. . . An adorable exploration of jealousy.
—Kirkus Reviews

A relatable story. . . Kim has mastered the furrowed-brow pout, and her use of light (from stage spotlights to sunshine) and shadowed silhouettes to underscore emotions is effectively implemented. . . [the story] offers a positive example of collaboration and communication to resolve tension between siblings. Children will feel seen by this book.
—Booklist

There’s plenty of humorous snark in Tessie’s grumpy narration, and her jealousy of and annoyance with Maya ring with authenticity. . . Readers struggling with sibling rivalry or just the weight of their own expectations will appreciate Tessie’s ability to let loose and have fun.
—The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books