In this novel, debut author Nicole D. Collier introduces readers to Jillian, a 5th grader who needs to find her voice. Jillian knows she is shy, but after letting her rival win a competition because she is afraid of attention, Jillian realizes she isn’t just shy, she is hiding. With the support of her parents, teacher, classmates, and the memory of her late grandmother, Jillian slowly learns to overcome her fears as she realizes she is just right. She begins following her heart and refuses to blend in with the other students and even takes a risk by participating in the school-wide Mind Bender competition. In her quest to gain self-confidence, Jillian makes the connection that she might be just like the chicks hatching in her science class. While this connection could have come across as forced or obvious, Collier instead does a great job weaving together Jillian’s science project and her personal growth as a way to enhance the themes of the story. Collier writes this novel from Jillian’s perspective, drawing readers in as they get to know this smart, thoughtful, creative girl. She creates a likable, relatable character readers can’t help but cheer for. This book is appropriate for 4th-6th graders, especially those who might need a strong example of the rewards that come from learning to speak out loud what’s in your heart.

Reviewed by Lindsay Varnum, Orono Public Library