Description

A perfect picture book about perseverance, overcoming challenges, and working hard to achieve your goals!

Sydney learns to conquer her fear of public speaking at school, in this affectionate father-daughter story referencing inspiring role models who dealt with similar issues.

Sydney wants to be a great leader when she grows up. There’s just one problem—when she tries to speak in front of the class, she gets nervous, and the words just won’t come out.

Readers will cheer for Sydney as “No, I can’t” changes to “Yes, I can!”

Sydney’s journey includes practice; encouragement from her loving dad; and a dose of inspiration from such luminaries as Shirley Chisholm, Carol Moseley Braun, Condoleezza Rice, and Kamala Harris.

About the Author

Malcolm Newsome is a children’s book author living in the Chicago area. His first book, Dear Star Baby, came out in 2023. When he’s not writing or spending time with family, you’ll probably find him either reading, spending time outside in his mini-orchard, or being a lumberjack. You can visit him at malcolmnewsome.com.

Jade Orlando was born on an army base in North Carolina and grew up in a tiny Michigan town. After an impassioned childhood spent drawing dragons and cat ladies, she traveled to SCAD Savannah to get a BFA in illustration. Jade currently lives in Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband, greyhound, and four cats (including two naked ones!).

Praise For…

“Newsome tells a sweetly empowering story, while Orlando’s illustrations, a combination of watercolor and digital media, are whimsical, charming, and inviting. Wonderful inspiration for young introverts.” — Kirkus Reviews