Gustavo, the shy ghost by Flavia Z. Drago

Gustavo is a ghost. He is good at doing all sorts of paranormal things, like walking through walls, making objects fly and glowing in the dark. And he loves playing beautiful music on his violin. But Gustavo also has a problem. He is SHY. Which means some things are harder for him to do, like getting in a line to buy eye-scream or talking to the other monsters. But Gustavo longs to be a part of something, he longs to be seen. More than anything, he wants to make a friend. So, plucking up all his courage, he sends a very special letter: "Dear Monsters, I would like to invite you to my violin concert at the Day of the Dead party."

But will anybody come?

This is a most delightful, award-winning story that will resonate with so many who find their shyness crippling, to the point that it really impacts their life and stifles their dreams. Based on the creator's own childhood, it offers hope to those who would really like to make a friend by encouraging them to discover their strengths and passions, play to them and share them. Even for those who are not as shy as Gustavo, a lack of confidence in who we are can prevent us from making the most of the situations that present themselves, and this has been quite noticeable after months of having to be at home without the physical contact of our friends. So sharing Gustavo's story, considering the worst that might happen in a situation and then suggesting strategies that could be used if it does can be a starting point to taking that first step. If Gustavo can find a way, our children can.

One to share with all our students as the social season really starts to take off, and even if it's making the first move to make a new friend in the caravan park at the beach, it will open up new horizons.

Barbara Braxton