Sheila Rae, the Brave

Sheila Rae, the Brave is a children's book by Kevin Henkes that tells the story of a young mouse named Sheila Rae who prides herself on being brave. She isn't afraid of anything, not thunder, not dark corners, not big dogs, and she even steps on cracks in the sidewalk without fear. One day, Sheila Rae decides to walk home from school using a new route to prove her bravery. However, she soon becomes lost and her confidence falters. Feeling scared and alone, she calls out for her sister, Louise. To Sheila Rae's surprise, it is her quieter and more cautious sister who finds her and leads her safely home. Along the way, Sheila Rae holds onto Louise's tail, realizing that her sister has her own form of bravery. The story ends with the two sisters walking home hand in hand, with Sheila Rae acknowledging and appreciating Louise's quiet courage. The book celebrates the themes of bravery, sibling support, and the understanding that there are different ways to be brave.