Emily Was SO Embarrassed

Emily loves to dance... but only when no one is watching.

Emily enjoys twirling and dancing with her favorite ribbon in the privacy of her room. But when her friend Becky invites her to perform in the school talent show, Emily is horrified. What if she forgets her routine? What if everyone laughs? The thought of standing in front of an audience makes her want to hide.

With a little encouragement and a lot of heart, Emily discovers that everyone feels nervous sometimes. She learns that courage doesn't mean never being embarrassed—it means finding the confidence to try anyway.
Filled with humor, heart, and interactive search-and-find illustrations, Emily Was SO Embarrassed is a delightful picture book that helps children understand that making mistakes is part of learning, growing, and believing in themselves.

"Colorful and creative—a crafty way to impart life lessons." -Kirkus Reviews

"Inspiring story of a button learning to overcome embarrassment" -Booklife

Chosen as a Teacher Favorite by the Children's Book Council, this engaging picture book offers a wonderful way for classrooms, libraries, and families to help children build confidence and resilience.

Perfect for:

• Children ages 4–8
• Kids who are shy or afraid of making mistakes
• Building confidence and self-esteem
• Social-emotional learning (SEL)
• Classroom read-alouds
• School counseling lessons
• Parents, grandparents, teachers, and librarians
• Young dancers and performers
• Interactive search-and-find fun

Young readers will laugh, search every page for hidden surprises, and discover that everyone feels embarrassed sometimes—and that believing in yourself is the first step toward finding your courage.

Michelle Olson is the award-winning author of two beloved children's picture book series, Norman-the-Button and Tales-from-the-Craft-Box. Since beginning her writing journey in 2017, Michelle has published five titles, including her latest, Emily Was SO Embarrassed. Her stories celebrate themes of friendship, perseverance, and self-expression, delighting young readers and their families.