Stage Fright
Looniverse Series
What’s inside...
In the Looniverse, things are getting stranger as Ed accidentally signs up for a playwriting contest instead of a bowling league. He and his friends create a wacky play starring a hamburger, a moose, a ninja, and a pirate mouse. As they perform, Ed's powers as the Stranger cause chaos, and he must scramble to stop the strangeness before it's too late. Meanwhile, Josie, a reserved young girl, struggles with stage fright as the talent show approaches. With the support of her outgoing friend Bud, Josie learns to leverage the power of a growth mindset to face her fears and pursue her passion for singing.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-8
Length
42 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What do you think the main character felt when they were about to perform? Have you ever felt something similar?
How did the character overcome their fear of being on stage?
What would you have done if you were in the main character's shoes?
Why is it important to support friends when they are scared or nervous?
Can you think of a time when you were brave like the character?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a gentle and encouraging tone to make your child feel comfortable discussing their own feelings and experiences related to stage fright.
Relate the story to real-life situations your child might encounter, like recitals or class presentations, to make the discussion more relevant.
Praise your child's insights and bravery in sharing their thoughts and feelings. This reinforces their confidence to express themselves.
Ask follow-up questions based on your child's responses to keep the conversation flowing and to delve deeper into their understanding of the book's themes.
Share your personal experiences with overcoming fears to help your child see that everyone faces challenges and can overcome them.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming Fear
Explanation: In 'Stage Fright', the protagonist faces and conquers her fear of performing in front of an audience.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to face their own fears, whether it's speaking in class, trying out for a sports team, or making new friends.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Preparation
Explanation: The book illustrates how practicing and preparing can help ease anxiety and boost confidence.
Real-World Application: Kids can use this lesson to understand the value of preparing for school presentations, exams, or any new challenges.
Example Lesson: Supporting Others
Explanation: Characters in the book show support for one another, which helps the protagonist overcome her stage fright.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children the importance of being supportive friends and classmates, fostering a positive and encouraging environment.
Example Lesson: Self-Expression
Explanation: Through her journey, the protagonist learns to express herself authentically despite her fears.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to express themselves openly in their own unique ways, whether through art, writing, or other forms of creativity.
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: The protagonist demonstrates resilience by not giving up despite setbacks and ultimately succeeding.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to persevere through difficulties in their lives, understanding that persistence is key to overcoming obstacles.