Shy Ones by Simona Ciraolo

"He's not the type who stands out in class. He's not the type who stands out in the playground either. Unless you are looking for him you wouldn't know he's missing."

It is so important for children to read books which reflect their own life experience.  I am very shy and I totally understand how this limits my daily life. Maurice is a flapjack octopus and he is also one of the shy ones. 

Publisher blurb Flying Eye Books: Who’s this? A little flapjack octopus. You may almost have missed him. You see, he’s not the type to stand out in a crowd. Unless you were looking for him, you might not spot him at all… He’s one of the shy ones. This beautifully delicate picture book explores the topic of shyness and friendship. Stunningly illustrated by bestselling creator Simona Ciraolo, this book is sure to resonate with young children across the world, particularly those who are just starting school.

When you find this book (published in 2020) take time to look closely at the end papers - you will spy a clever subtle difference between front and back. 

So here it is, a book that spins the beautiful tale of a shy kid who finally finds an equally shy friend, and comes out of her shell a bit. When you see that happen in the story, just like when you see it happen as a parent who is proud of their kid, it's a moment to treasure. Read it Daddy

The illustrations are delightful, gently humorous and full of life. Shy toddlers worried about making friends will take comfort from this reassuring story in which we are reminded that shy ones ‘always spot one another’. North Somerset Teachers Book Award

You might also want to read more about the Flapjack Octopus.

Here is a list of other books about shyness from Little Parachutes. Take a look at my previous post Hug Me also by Simona Ciraolo.

Gustavo the Shy Ghost, another book about shyness, recently won Klaus Flugge Prize for the most exciting and promising newcomer to children's picture book illustration.