Mr. Wayne’s Masterpiece by Patricia Polacco speaks to the hearts
of so many students that love to read and write but have an absolute fear of
speaking in front of people, even their peers. Presented in picture book format, in true Polacco style,
this book is the inspiring story of how the author herself conquered her fear of
public speaking and discovered her own true voice. Many readers, both young and old, will relate to the fear
the main character feels as she attempts to take on the lead role in her school’s
play. The advice that her teacher,
Mr. Wayne, offers her helps her to find the courage within herself to continue
on. He reminds her to unlock her knees, forget the audience and…
Relax. Move around the stage……. Patricia let
the play take you.
Such simple directions, but directions that can help so many
conquer their fears and find their own true voices!
This is a book that I will be adding to my cache of mentor
texts. It’s the perfect book to
share with students as they prepare to present in class. Many students will connect with Patricia
in the story. The advice of Mr.
Wayne will resonate for them as they gain the courage to conquer their own fear
of public speaking.
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