Stanley’s Secret

Stanley is a talented boy with big dreams of dancing on stage, but he is too shy to share his gift openly. So while his other classmates participate in sports, Stanley secretly taps away with his pet mice, Squeaker and Nibbles, as his audience. Stanley is surprised to learn that the school principal has discovered his secret and urges him to participate in the school talent show. With only weeks to overcome his shyness, he practices while birds, cats, and his mice friends spirit him on.

Soon, he musters the courage to practice on the school’s auditorium stage. As he ball changes, flaps, and finishes with a spinning tap, Stanley is surprised to hear applause! He has inadvertently danced his way smack into the talent show auditions. But how will he do in the actual competition?

Author John Sullivan has written a meaningful story, told simply and clearly, demonstrating that children can find confidence in doing, in preparing, and in stepping out with courage to share their gifts with the world, and not feel inferior by comparing themselves to others. Zach Manbeck’s illustrations are lively and sweet, the colors magically vivid and appealing. I highly recommend this book for young readers, teachers, and parents to share the important teachable messages it conveys.