The Shy Book: questions to ask and activities to try
This book wants to be read, but it's feeling shy and thinks you should pick a different one. The Shy Book is a gentle, funny story about shyness, where the reader's kindness helps the book feel brave.
What age is it for? The Shy Book is best for ages 3–7. Good for: Feeling shy, and worrying that others will find you boring.
The Shy Book (Howard Pearlstein)
- Age
- 3-7
- Best for
- Feeling shy, and worrying that others will find you boring
Read it in a small, worried voice for the book. Encourage it together, then talk about what helps your child when they feel shy.
What it helps with
- Shyness and worrying what others think
- Encouraging someone who feels nervous
- Being patient with quiet people
- Feeling braver with kindness
Comprehension and discussion questions
Pick two or three, not all of them. “I don’t know” is a fine answer, and you can always come back to it another day.
- “How did the book feel?”
- “What was it worried about?”
- “What did it suggest we do?”
- “How did we help it?”
- “When do you feel shy?”
- “What helps you feel braver?”
5-minute activities to try together
Cheer the book
Take turns saying kind, encouraging words to the book as you turn the pages.
Shy and brave
Draw yourself feeling shy, then feeling brave. What changed?
Free printables: The Shy Book worksheet and activity pack
This book’s one-page worksheet with the questions and activities above, plus our activity pack: printable scenario cards, three 5-minute activities and a “What could I try?” page for practising everyday skills together. Enter your email and download them straight away.
Free. We’ll only email you if you tick the box.
If your child liked this, try
Quiet! (Kate Alizadeh)
- Best for
- Listening to the sounds of home
- Age
- 1-5
I Really, Really Don't Like Parties (Angie Morgan)
- Best for
- Finding parties too loud and busy
- Age
- 3-7
This Book Just Ate My Dog! (Richard Byrne)
- Best for
- A book that swallows things, and readers who help
- Age
- 3-7
Search all our books by what's happening →
By the Growing Wise team · Last reviewed: 10 October 2026
Growing Wise offers educational ideas for parents and carers. It is not a substitute for professional medical, developmental or mental-health advice. As an Amazon Associate, Growing Wise earns from qualifying purchases.