Nominated for the Yoto Carnegie Medal for Illustration 2025

A book wants to be read, it really does, but it has a problem. It’s feeling shy. It’s also worried that the reader will find it silly or, worse, boring.

So the book recommends that the reader choose a different book, because surely another book will be better. But what if the reader keeps going? Ultimately, the book finds a way to tell its story while offering children a simple way to feel brave even when they, like the book, feel shy.

Howard Pearlstein is the author of nine picture books. His upcoming titles in 2024 and 2025 include This Book Is Not For You and The Bad Book for Good Kids, both published by Familius. Howard is based in the US.

James Munro has been drawing since he could grasp a pencil. Since then, everything in his path has fallen prey to his doodles, from books and magazines to films and animations. He lives and works in a pile of pencil shavings and spilled ink in Liverpool.

Longlisted for the Children's Literature Festivals Book Awards 2025

'Not only is this book funny, interactive and creative, but it also teaches children genuine social skills for those who may find it hard to make friends.' BookTrust

'Touching, funny and very relevant this is a wonderful book for sharing.' Armadillo Magazine

'Addressing social anxiety with humour and a light touch, this is an interactive read ideal for those who struggle in the spotlight.' Ruth Concannon, Irish Examiner

'This is one we’ll probably be reading a lot over the summer especially with P starting nursery in September.' Posies Book Club

'Starting school can be so exciting but also very daunting and The Shy Book is a great way to explain anxious feelings to little ones (and adults too!)' EYFS Books and Things

'Writer Howard Pearlstein has created such a fun and unique book, which is both playful and supportive, and James Munro's brilliant illustrations engage us at every turn with speech bubbles, book titles and more to explore. We also LOVE the cover.' Teeny Readers

'As someone who was very shy as a child myself, I know this book would have been a wonderful way to feel less alone in my shyness while also giving a great idea for how to feel less shy when among others.' Strawberry Post

'The illustrations are super cute & the storyline relates to my little shyguy so much, giving a message that it’s okay to be shy & feel the emotions that relate to being shy.' The Magic of Early Years

'Oh I LOVE this book! Not only is it humorous, clever and entertaining - it has *tangible* advice for if you’re feeling shy too.' Lights out with Louise