Ready for the Spotlight! by Jaime Kim
Published by Candlewick Press on January 25, 2022
ISBN: 1536205184
Pages: 40
Genres: Realistic Fiction, Sports
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads

Ready for the Spotlight is the story of Tessie, who can’t stand that her older sister is better than her at ballet. Just looking at Tessie’s snarky glare will remind the reader of a time they were irrationally jealous of someone they loved. Tessie is new in the class and her mother, teacher, and sister all gentle remind her that it takes practice to improve and every person that dances had to learn the basics first.

Tessie feels like it’s the last straw when her big sister wins the solo in the upcoming recital, but when Tessie takes a moment to relax and let loose she does a great freestyle dance that her classmates love. Later, Tessie’s sister asks for some pointers on how to do freestyle as well as Tessie does.

This story is a very relatable tale about jealously and sibling rivalry. It talks about how we all have something special to share. The main character isn’t particularly likable, but none of us are when we are feeling this way.

The illustrations occasionally use shadow to show Tessie’s perception, but I didn’t find the illustrations particularly interesting.

Overall an okay book for ages 4-8. The book is about dance and jealously, so it will circulate but won’t bring anything unique to your collection.

Reviewed by Katie Drago, Children’s Librarian, Rockland Public Library, Rockland, ME