"Sometimes Willow smiled without even trying. But sometimes when she
wished she could and knew she should, her smile slipped straight off her
face." So when her teacher tells the class that Picture Day is coming,
shy Willow starts to worry. What if she isn't able to smile for the
camera? How can she have her picture taken without smiling? But then on
Picture Day, Willow gets the opportunity to watch the other children
being photographed. She sees that all of her friends' expressions are
unique, and perfect in their own way. And by the time it's her turn,
she's realized that she doesn't need to worry about smiling for her
picture. She just needs to be herself. In this sweet picture book,
author Lana Button has created a relatable and reassuring story that
offers children a terrific model for how to deal with a difficult
experience in a socially and emotionally competent way. The simple
illustrations by Tania Howells beautifully capture the story's focus
through the range of emotions so clearly expressed by Willow and her
classmates. This book provides opportunities for character lessons on
self-respect, empathy and resilience. It would work for a classroom
introduction to the annual ritual of Picture Day as well, a subject not
often covered yet very significant to young children. It could also lead
to a conversation about why we take pictures and what makes a great
picture, and to activities such as making a class photo album.
