Maya Inside

by Alison Hughes, Brady Sato (illustrator)

Maya went into her box when a classmate teased her, and again when another hurt her feelings.


Now she’s there most of the time. It’s safe and quiet and best of all it can be anything she wants it to be. She brings it on bike rides and to school, and while kids used to notice it, now they barely see her at all. But Maya can't help but wonder if there might be something she's missing. Yes, it's noisy and scary out there, but it's also exciting and fun. Finally, Maya bravely decides to step out into the sunshine and find her place in the world—outside her box.

Genres: Picture Books

32 pages, Hardcover

Published September 16, 2025

Reviews

[Sheri · Rating 4 out of 5]

Maya has a box to hide inside when others hurt her feelings. But she discovers she can dream and draw and be any way she wants inside her box. The box keeps her safe but is not good for making friends until she bravely leaves the box and interacts with other children. Maya opens up to new friendships.

[Cynthia Mackey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely story for children about what to do when you feel stuck in your shyness using the metaphor of being inside a box. When Maya steps out of her box, the world feels free and fun!