Poppy’s family run a circus and performing is all she has ever known. She has taken part in shows since she was a tiny little penguin, mastering all the skills needed to wow the crowds and make her parents proud. She can unicycle, juggle and trapeze like a pro. She’s a master at magic and regularly finds herself being shot out of a cannon or leaping through a ring of fire – but Poppy has a secret.
To the outside world it looks like Poppy is living the perfect life, but deep down she really doesn’t like performing. She dislikes the lights, the crowds, the noise and the attention but everyday she pretends she is happy because she is scared of letting her parents down.
One day it all becomes too much and the little penguin realises that something needs to change. She wants to be part of the circus but she doesn’t want to be in the spotlight anymore.
Telling her Mum how she feels seems far scarier than any of the death-defying feats she has performed in the ring but Poppy takes a deep breath and dives in. Can she convince her Mum to let her try something new, and what kind of role will suit her best?
This is a wonderfully heartwarming story which shows children that you don’t have to be the one who shouts the loudest to be a success. By trusting her instincts, Poppy teaches us that we should celebrate our unique talents and always be true to ourselves.
I’d definitely recommend this one if you have a child who lacks confidence or is prone to feeling shy in new situations. It’s a story which I wish I could have read as a child as school concerts, assemblies and anything else which required public speaking absolutely terrified me. Like Poppy, I would definitely have been happier in the background – quietly organising, making lists and ensuring everything ran smoothly!
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Disclosure: The publisher provided us with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.