I Am Quiet

Praise

“This is a book for every child who has been told by adults that they are ‘shy,’ in that condescending way that implies that their way of being is a phase that needs to be outgrown. Emile shows us how strength and answers and friendship can be quiet.”
—Booklist, Starred Review

“I Am Quiet shows readers how to practice self-kindness, by listening to our inside—that part of us that tells us who we are—even when the outside world tries to put their words on us. This sort of self-inquiry can also help us understand how the outsides of others may not meet our expectations or understanding and that maybe we should show kindness by honoring even what we cannot know about them.”
—School Library Journal

“Whether readers gain energy from solo time or from a group, they will find much to admire in this book’s protagonist, who is comfortable in the world and in their skin.”
—Publishers Weekly

“This story reassures and empowers introverted children and conveys their strengths to extroverted children and adults. It’s also a much-needed counter to similar titles that encourage quieter children to adapt. A refreshing, inspiring voice for young readers.”
—Kirkus Reviews

“Charming, entertaining, thoroughly ‘kid friendly’ in tone, I Am Quiet will prove to be an immediately welcome and enduringly appreciated addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library ‘Life Skills’ picture book collections for children.”
—Midwest Book Review

“By giving children a window into what it’s like to be an introvert—and how it differs from being shy—I Am Quiet raises awareness in outgoing children and builds esteem in those who are introspective.”
—Spirituality & Practice