I Am Quiet: A Story for the Introvert in All of Us

by Andie Powers, Betsy Petersen (Illustrator)

Emile is not shy—he is quiet.

Emile may seem timid and shy on the outside, but on the inside he is bustling with imagination. While grownups and even other kids may see Emile as the shy kid who doesn’t raise his hand in class, we know that Emile is actually a high-seas adventurer, a daring explorer, and a friend to wild beasts.

This story honors and encourages the beauty of knowing ourselves for exactly who we are. Emile’s world shows us that the mind of a quiet child can be as rich, expansive, and bold as that of any other (more extroverted) child.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Fiction, Middle Grade, Mental Health, Psychology, Realistic Fiction

32 pages, Hardcover

First published April 12, 2022

About the author

Andie Powers is a writer for children. Her debut picture book, I Am Quiet: A Story for the Introvert in All of Us, was released in 2022 with Bala Kids. It was a Goodreads Choice award nominee for Best Children's Book of the year, and earned a starred review from Booklist. It was also a Kids’ Indie Next Pick for May/June 2022 and earned praise from Publisher's Weekly, Kirkus Reviews, Midwest Book Review and more. Her newest picture book, I Am Bold: For Every Kid Who's Told They're Just Too Much was released in April, 2024.

Andie's previously published works include Bravery Magazine, Root & Star, Bright Lite, The Horn Book Guide, Uppercase Magazine, Seattle’s Child, Apartment Therapy, and The Bedford Reader. She lives and works in Seattle with her husband, her two daughters, and a dog named Ralph S. Mouse.

Reviews

[Hilary · Rating 4 out of 5]

A story of a little boy who is quiet but not shy. This would be a good book for adults to take notice of, so many times when my children were small an adult would say hello in a loud and silly way, often close to their faces and then say in an equally loud and silly voice 'oh, you are shy' before they'd barely had time to reply. Anyone who spoke to them as if they were just another human being would get a prompt reply followed by conversation. This book has several of those adults in, and it shows that just because someone isn't loud or talkative you shouldn't assume they are shy. It's a good subject to talk about with children and not making assumptions about someone is a great thing to learn.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Growing up in my family of 3 children, I was known as the 'quiet one,' so this book held special meaning for me. Author Andie Powers helps us understand that quiet children can have lively imaginations and a busy thought life.

Favorite lines:

"Strength can be quiet."

"Friendship can be quiet."

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Despite the fact that I have led an extroverted life through my career choices as a college instructor, director, and taking various leadership positions within the community...

I am...

An introvert by nature.

So...

When this children’s book became available, I couldn’t help but want to order it through Zip books (a special program through the library system).

And...

I hope that the library system will keep it available for not only children, but adults, as well to check out...

Because...

It isn’t just about being shy – it is about understanding what it is like being quiet. Like quiet on the inside where imagination can roam free.

And...

If one pays attention, you can observe a quiet child who is creatively exploring and discovering so much about the outside world in their own way…

But...

Quietly.

And...

That is where those “quiet shy” introverts can really be quite amazing. We don’t want to underestimate the intelligence of the quiet ones.

Or...

Any child who may be misunderstood in their quiet-ness.

This is a beautiful story that deserves to be celebrated.

[Morris · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I had a dollar for every time someone called me shy or told me to come out of my shell, I would have an entire floor of my house that was nothing but books. This is perfect for the quiet child (or adult). It really helps us introverts feel understood and would make a wonderful gift.

This unbiased review is based on a complimentary copy provided by the publisher.

[Chantel · Rating 5 out of 5]

In reading books that are intended for children I am reminded of the beauty of words. One can say so much & have words carry immense weight, without needing every letter in the alphabet to align to do so. How refreshing & hopeful one is left feeling coming across a book such as this wherein the innermost child of many can be seen wandering amongst the pages.

I am quiet & so is Emile, the main character of this poetic story that follows him as he details why he does not feel pressured to speak as others do. I do not need to write an essay formatted rationale of why it is important & valuable to have stories reflect the voices of every individual. Should you have ever found yourself humbled by the recognition that an author’s words have granted you, you have felt as I have upon reading this story.

In his life, Emile wanders silently. He is not shy, he is not unsure or confused, he is simply quiet. He has parents who reassure him that the way he lives his life is perfectly fine & that he does not need to be as others are; he is enough in all the ways which make him who he is. Emile tells the reader about all the adventures he experiences in his silence; voyages across the vast expanse of the universe & meeting entities unknown. So too does he become acquainted with many of those who are overlooked by the rapidity of speech; the quiet footsteps that Emile takes allow him to meet the creatures that inhabit our world alongside us in intimate ways.

Powers has made Emile a real representation of many of us & as a parent with a child who is quiet, & as a grown person who is so themselves, it is a welcome story we read through the peaceful transitions of happiness, hopefulness, love & wonder that Emile experiences in this short poetic book. Should you be seeking to reinforce the validity which is needed to those amongst us who are still growing, to confirm that it is okay to say nothing at all; that the way we communicate does not need to be in words but, with our presence & support & our diligence with showcasing love — this book is one you should invest in reading.

The phenomenally painted illustrations highlight the depth which the prose seeks to emit. I am simply astounded by every piece of this book.

Thank you to NetGalley, Shambhala Publications, Inc & Andie Powers for the free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!

[Medeia Sharif · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a misunderstood introvert, I related to this book. Through the protagonist, Emile, the story draws the distinction between being quiet and being shy. They are so not the same thing! It also shows the rich inner world introverts can possess and how they interact with other people in their own way. There were examples of how those around them make assumptions about their quietness. I read this via NetGalley, courtesy of the publisher.

[Nick-library · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was my nieces choice that I got this book for them, and I can say they actually made a good choice, how we all gathered to see how the kids read /love it with joy.

[Ley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Last read of 2022. Reminded me so much of my 9-year-old self who would rather go to the library during lunch breaks.

[Hilary (Melted Books) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this concept (I, too, am a former “quiet” kid). Introverts are perfect just as they are. I think this would’ve been even better with additional pages explaining why “quiet” is a pejorative.

[itselv:#&309;]

المحيط الذي عشت سنوات حياتي الأولى فيه كان يرى الشخص الهادئ شخصًا ضعيفًا بلا إمكانيات، أشرس ما سمعته وأثَّر فيَّ كان "الهادي الله يعينه ماله مستقبل"، أو حينما يصرِّح الوالد بأن ولده شديد الهدوء تجده وكأنه يصرّح بمصيبة، وإذا اثنوا عليه قالوا أن الهادئ لا يُتعب بالتربية، أيَّ أنه مفيد لغيره لا لنفسه. وأما نقيضه فدائمًا ما يتم مدحه وكأنه أعجوبة "جريئة بسم الله عليها" وأحيانًا حتى "اخلاقه وشخصيته هذي تنفعه يوم يكبر"… (: ولذلك، نشأت معتقدةً أن علي تغيير شخصيتي وإلّا ستكون حياتي (بالأخص الأكاديمية) جحيمًا لا يطاق، وأنه إمّا أن تكون جريئًا صاخبًا أو لن تنجز شيئًا في هذه الدنيا.

أتمنى لو قرأت هذا الكتاب في ذاك الوقت، لعله كان باستطاعتي أن افهم مبكرًا أنني لست مشكلة وهدوئي ليس عيبًا فيني، وأنها أرزاق، والأقدار لا تتأثر ولا تتغير باختلاف شخصيتك، وأنَّ كل ماجرى وسيجري، بخيره وشره، خير ونعمة.

[Peacegal · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great idea for a book! There is nothing wrong with being quiet and an introvert.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

A picture book every adult should read and a great one for children who feel forced to be more open than they naturally are. Being quiet is not a bad thing, and I loved following Emile as they described how unique they are and how their quietness does not mean they are shy. Quite the contrary, Emile is imaginative, smart, and introspective. As adults, we perceive that all children should be loud and always put themselves out there, but each child is wonderfully different and just because one is quiet or prefers to keep to themselves does not mean something is "wrong" with them.

[Jaksen · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book! Wonderful wonderful wonderful!

For the introvert in all of us - but esp. for those who are not shy, not bashful, just quiet. Simple, succinct, splendid - wonderful artwork, lovely words. Written NOT just for children, but for 'grown-ups' and those who ove poetry - and esp. for those who love reading about themselves!

Like so many who've reviewed this book, I didn't consider myself shy, just quiet. Someone who preferred a good book or old movie on PBS to going out bowling. (Okay, I did go sometimes.) Also, someone who wasn't comfortable in large groups - esp. large NOISY groups, of which my family was chock-full of. (Being quiet in a noisy family? Not easy. Easier to be the noisy one in a quiet bunch. I digress...)

This book is perfect. Can be read in a minute. Should be read to a child - a quiet one, a noisy one, or one of the many (most) people who are in-between. I borrowed this book. I want my own copy!

Five not-shy stars. Just five quiet ones.

[elise · Rating 4 out of 5]

my heart is aching silence was always my worst enemy

shoutout to the middle school teacher who would call me her “mute” during class you were my villain origin story and also the subject of MANY essays but hey one of those essays got me into college and also i’m fueled by spite so thanks i guess

lovely book!

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't think this story would be appealing to my 3 yr old but it really resonated with her even at this age. She asked for back to back readings. "I'm not shy I'm quiet," is such an easy and good reframe for kids and adults alike, especially since "shy" comes up immediately as a soft "critique" of kids' responses to strangers even in infancy.

[Athena ღ · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Strength can be quiet."

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the message in this book! As a self-proclaimed introvert, this cute children’s book really spoke to me.

[Moonkiszt · Rating 3 out of 5]

Featured in a grandma reads session.

Some folks are quiet, and some are not. This gentle picture book walks us through some moments in the life of a quiet person, and shows some of the ones that are most concerning, and why. Those who are not quiet folk sometimes don't even know they might be causing concern, and sometimes quiet persons don't let those around them know what's happening inside.

We have a shy person or two in our group of mostly Not Shy persons, who often do not think of others. Not because they are mean or wanting to cause hurt or concern, but just because they are not aware of the affects of their actions. Picture books like this bring up the best discussion opportunities, and engage all participants to take stock of who they are, and how they can make a better space around themselves and others. Kudos for these kind of books, and thoughtful authors and illustrators!

[Lata · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty artwork illustrates the powerfully active and inventive imaginations of children who are outwardly quiet and mistakenly labelled as shy, withdrawn, or unfriendly.
As an introvert frequently shamed when young for being too quiet, this was a nice validation.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Strength can be quiet."

Such a short but powerful story. I'm sad that it wasn't longer. It is okay to be quiet!

[giso0 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm only too familiar with those grown-ups who expect every child to act always like a lamb that sees a meadow for the very first time. Surely they would benefit a good deal from this little book.

[مجید اسطیری · Rating 4 out of 5]

چند سال دیگه باید این رو برای پسرم بخونم و براش توضیح بدم درونگرا بودن یعنی چی و نذارم از این بابت ناراحت باشه

[Matal “The Mischling Princess” Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was determined to read I AM QUIET: A STORY FOR THE INTROVERT IN ALL IF US partially because it was voted as the 2022 GoodReads Choice Award for Middle Grade & Children’s Category, and also because I was extremely interested what it took to beat out Chokshi’s ARU SHAH AND THE NECTAR OF IMMORTALITY.

Written by Andie Powers and Betsy Petersen, this cute picture book is a wonderful story about a young boy, Emile, who is an introvert. Although I liked the book, I cannot be emphatic enough when I state that it is not in GoodReads’ interest, and is especially not in the interest of GoodReads users, to continue combining Picture Books and Middle Grade in the same category.

Don’t get me wrong—it’s not that I’m upset that my choice (Chokshi) didn’t win. Rather, it’s irritating to me that somebody actually believed that those two books should even placed in the same category together. A children’s picture book is worlds apart from a full-blown novel, not just in content, but also in readership. And although work does go into the writing of a PB, it pales in comparison when one considers the tedious amount of research and writing that goes into a novel.

That said, it was a cute book and will likely appeal to my fellow introverts. The illustrations were equally cute, but they were similar to many other PB’s I’ve read. I’m certain that many parents and librarians will likely purchase this book, especially after winning the GoodReads Choice Award. I certainly hope, however, that the ‘Powers to Be’ will separate the Picture Book and Middle Grade books categories for 2023.

[Kimmy ♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the book the little girl inside of me needed all those yesterdays ago. This is the book I needed today, this morning, as I got ready for work in my first year of my 30s when I "should" have already come out of my shell—what a wonderful love letter to those of us who keep to ourselves. My heart is whole and sparkling.

I walked away from this book, clutching my chest.

"At school, Mae and Thomas are full of answers and ready to burst! I know the answers too, but I keep them like a secret. I whisper them to myself softly. Answers can be quiet."

Yes. Yes, they can.

[adeservingporcupine · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not really a fan of the shaming of shy kids in this book. As someone who was a shy AND introverted kid, it feels icky. Also the tagline is weird.

[Bluebelle-the-Inquisitive (Catherine) · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is one for the introverts or the parents of quiet, introverted children they don't quite understand, they can't understand because that wasn't them as children. It was me as a child and I remain an introvert.

I loved this. The protagonist, Emile is so, so relatable and such a well written introvert. Emile is a boy but because of his younger age he can be and is presented in a gender neutral way. It begins with showing what Emile is doing in his head, racing with dinosaurs or sailing on a ship and moves into what he is doing in the real word, drawing, walking and listening to the surrounding noise. Reminding the reader that friendship, intelligence and exploration can all be quiet. Grown-ups just need to watch. Watch and not place their expectations of development and childhood behaviour onto them.

Betsy Petersen has a beautiful child friendly illustration style. She didn't do simple full page illustrations she makes creative use of white space to create breaks the imaginary world and the real world. The illustrations are bright and colourful. The dinosaurs are a mix of forms like a child's imagination, sea creatures are luminous and the real world has that perfectly realism.

It's a perfect addition to home, school and public libraries. I really recommend it to parents and much older siblings old enough to understand the link between introvert, quiet and intelligence.

[Amanda up North · Rating 4 out of 5]

Winner of the 2022 Goodreads Choice Award for Best Middle Grade & Children's book.

I've raised quiet-but-not-shy children, so the story of Emile and the author's note resonated with me. The quiet kid can often be misunderstood and underestimated. My quiet kids have always been confident, capable, and full of great thinking.
The same kindergarten teacher taught all five of my children, and I will always appreciate that she saw their quiet as a strength. She too, had a quiet kid and was always told by his teachers, "he needs to speak up more." Instead, she saw the value and strength in observation skills, making these quiet kids wonderful listeners and learners, and considerate classmates.
I leaned much more shy as a child, myself, which was often hard, and I felt that particular misunderstanding for my kids, too. They weren't suffering shyness, they were just very comfortable being quiet.

I liked this book.

"Strength can be quiet."
"Answers can be quiet."

[Libby · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved how this book explored the difference between shy and quiet and how sometimes quiet kids are comfortable being by themselves. Some well meaning people especially adults misinterpret the quietness/introverted behaviour and may think they need to help the child “break out of their shell” when they are fine and don’t need it. The illustrations are cute and colourful, and the writing is lovely and simple enough for young readers to follow and understand.

It’s only 22 pages and I’m not the target audience (however I’m making it a goal of mine to read some children’s books each year to stay up to date with the children/middle grade book scene) but as an adult who’s become more introverted compared to my teenage self, Emile really resonated with me. I wouldn’t say I’m shy but I’m generally quiet and prefer to listen to others. I will be loud and chatty when I want to.

Favourite line: At recess, there are jungle gyms and monkey bars and whirly-swirly merry-go-rounds for the brave and dizzy. I investigate the cracks on the ground. I look closely to see who I might find. Sometimes I explore with a friend. Friendship can be quiet . [emphasis added]

[Himanshu Karmacharya · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are plenty of reasons for me wanting to read children's books, one of them is me being able to connect with the good ones, or them being able to reach out to me.

The book touches the concept of introversion, which is just enough for children, while also leaving adults with much to ponder about.

[Courtney (bookplaces) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this story about those of us who are quiet ones. This is such an important story for the quiet ones who are constantly told not to be shy. I was an adult before I understood that there was nothing wrong with being quiet🩵