March 21, 2023 8:00 am
by Molly Ruttan
Hi Tara! Before I begin, I want to take a moment to thank you for having me on your incredible blog! I am a big fan of yours—it’s such a pleasure to be here!
The roots for my new picture book SOMETHING WILD (Feb 28, 2023, Nancy Paulsen Books), which is about overcoming stage fright, go back to my childhood. When I was in second grade, my mother signed me up for violin lessons. I loved playing, but the stress of performing was too much for me—I ended up quitting the orchestra and sadly giving up the instrument altogether.
Fortunately, stage fright didn’t stop me from loving music and performing, and I’ve enjoyed being the drummer, back-up singer or both in many rock bands over the years. But the days leading up to performances were always (and still are) full of anxiety for me. What finally helped me manage was when I realized that I could rely on my muscle memory and my discipline to pull me through, in spite of my mind, which was busy panicking. This awareness has given me a great sense of comfort. It especially has helped once I am on stage—even to the extent that I actually can enjoy being there!
Here I am with The BumbleBeez, a kids rock band, circa mid 90s. Even though we performed for kids, I would still have anxiety on the days leading up to performances. I was the drummer and backup singer, (but not the original one; I recorded some singles, but I’m not on the albums) with Leanne Sterling (l) & David Scheffler (m). You can find the music on Apple Music & Spotify.
When it was time to create the final art for Something Wild, I began listening to a lot of violin music to get into the flow. I became totally inspired to pick up where I left off as a kid, and start playing again! I had a viola that had belonged to my mother, so I started taking lessons. I’ve been learning for about two months now. Here I am, playing the violin as a kid, and playing the viola now.
The book itself started to take form when I was pre-published and taking a class with Marla Frazee. She had given us the task of illustrating a sequence, and since I was performing a lot at that time, I was inspired to try and illustrate how stage fright felt for me. I painted a short narrative about a girl who was afraid to perform, but when she took the stage and remembered how much she loved to play, the world around her transformed into something wild and beautiful. It felt like the beginning of a book, but I couldn’t figure out what came next.
Several years later when I was working on my author/illustrator debut THE STRAY (2020, Nancy Paulsen Books), an SCBWI regional mingle coordinator asked me if I would present my “Path to Publication”. I said yes, but I was terrified. My stage fright kicked in, and I had many sleepless nights leading up to the event. To calm myself, I decided to use the strong emotion I was feeling to try to generate a new book. I started writing down how I was feeling, and all of a sudden I remembered my illustrations. The sequence I had drawn was the end of a story, not the beginning! I feel forever grateful for that presentation experience, which caused me so much anxiety—without it I would not have discovered the beginning of this book.
Presenting my “Path to Publication” at the SCBWI Regional mingle, 2018.
Some of the members in my Illustration Collective The Mullberries at a book-signing for Marla Frazee’s book Little Brown (2018, Beach Lane Books). Left to right: Helen Yoon, Judy Faulkner, Gail Buschman, myself, Annelouise Mahoney, Joy Dabby and April Zufelt. Not pictured: Jackie Huang, Danielle Heitmuller, Heidi Aubrey and Tricia Candemeres.
I spent the next several months working out the details with the help of a group of fantastic, talented friends. (We are now an Artist’s Collective called The Mulberries.) I am so grateful for them, and for my agent, Rachel Orr, for supporting me all along the way. And of course I am deeply thankful to Nancy Paulsen, for publishing it! Her wonderful expertise along with my brilliant art director Cecilia Yung—and the whole amazing team at Penguin—brought it to life! I hope that Hannah’s story will provide a comforting and entertaining journey for other anxious kids (and adults) to embrace, and an inspiration for them to try allowing something wild happen for them, too!
Interior spreads from SOMETHING WILD written and illustrated by Molly Ruttan. Nancy Paulsen Books, Penguin Random House ©2023.
Thank you for sharing your wild journey with us, Molly!
I think many introverted writers can relate to the SOMETHING WILD story.
Blog readers, Molly is giving away a delightful prize pack: a book, a sticker sheet, a round sticker & a bookmark. Just leave one comment below to enter and a random winner will be selected next month. (How about telling us if you get stage fright?)
Good luck!
Molly Ruttan grew up making art and music in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York, and earned a BFA from the Cooper Union School of Art. Molly now lives in the diverse and historic neighborhood of Echo Park in Los Angeles. She played violin as a child, plays drums, sings in a community choir and has just started learning the viola. She loves exploring all kinds of fine art and illustration mediums, including making her own animated book trailers. Her life is full of art, music, family, friends and all kinds of pets and urban animals.
Molly’s titles include her author/illustrator debut, THE STRAY, (Nancy Paulsen Books); I AM A THIEF! by Abigail Rayner, (North South Books); and VIOLET AND THE CRUMBS: A Gluten-Free Adventure by Abigail Rayner (North South Books). SOMETHING WILD is Molly’s second author/illustrated book and has received a starred Kirkus review. She has two additional books forthcoming.
Molly is represented by Rachel Orr at Prospect Agency. To contact Molly, purchase books & view her book trailers, go to Linktr.ee/mollyruttan.
Posted by Tara Lazar
Categories: Picture Books
Tags: Molly Ruttan, Nancy Paulsen Books, SOMETHING WILD
Mobile Site | Full Site
Get a free blog at WordPress.com Theme: WordPress Mobile Edition by Alex King.
Congrats, what a beautiful book you’ve made!
By andreesantini on March 21, 2023 at 8:12 am
Love this blog post! Such a great book! 📘🎉❤️
By Candace Spizzirri on March 21, 2023 at 8:13 am
Great stories! Can definitely relate!
By Maureen Egan on March 21, 2023 at 8:13 am
Hi. I worked as an opera singer for 20+ years. EVERY audition was a torture-filled, stage-fright experience. Eventually, I recognized the stomach pain, sweat, and anxiety as symptoms of adrenaline in my system and learned to accept it because I wanted the energy it gave me. Well, at least my brain did. Can’t wait to read the book!
By Carlie Cornell on March 21, 2023 at 8:14 am
How timely! My daughter was just in a play this weekend–something she hadn’t done in 15 years and yes, she was nervous. I’ve never seen a book about this subject and definitely would like to read this one. Congratulations!
By Rachelle Burk on March 21, 2023 at 8:16 am
This is awesome. I’m autistic and get crowd anxiety largely due to having sensory processing disorder so doing things like book signings is a challenge. But what a great way to think about it, that using muscle memory can help it be easier! ❤
By James Adams on March 21, 2023 at 8:19 am
Molly, I can’t wait to read this book! It reminds me of my dancing days when I was a kid and had to dance across the stage in front of a big audience (gulp!). Somehow my body got me through in a way I couldn’t have even expected! And then I felt invincible after.
By Hilary Margitich on March 21, 2023 at 8:24 am
Hi, Molly, I love the illustrations, and can definitely relate to stage fright! I often do author visits at schools, and used to travel around the state, talking to middle- and high-school students about safety. I always get the jitters beforehand, but end up enjoying the time with young people–and being inspired by them!
By M.R. on March 21, 2023 at 8:24 am
I loved this backstory! I am a retired teacher and school librarian and while I was always comfortable in front of kids, I would get reAlly nervous when I had to speak to a group of adults and my red face always gave me away. I can’t wait to read this book! Thanks so much for this interview!
By kurtzmom548513 on March 21, 2023 at 8:37 am
Congratulations! As a fellow violinist who often got stage fright before recitals, I can relate. Much luck for continued success!
By rosecappelli on March 21, 2023 at 8:39 am
Something Wild is certainly Something Wonderful. Congrats!
By Deb Buschman (@DebBuschman) on March 21, 2023 at 8:43 am
Eek! Stage fright! I still get butterflies before I read to a classroom, but I’ve found the nerves have improved as I’ve gotten older. Congrats on this book, Molly! It looks wonderful!
By Katie Frawley on March 21, 2023 at 8:44 am
I get horrible stage fright. I can so relate to the many days of anxiety leading up to an event. Congratulations on your book, Molly! I can’t wait to read it. The illustrations are beautiful!
By Debbie Austin on March 21, 2023 at 8:47 am
Thanks for sharing your fears, Molly! I totally get it!
By vivianvandevelde on March 21, 2023 at 8:54 am
How fun! Thanks for sharing!
By katiemillsgiorgio on March 21, 2023 at 9:00 am
I loved reading your story. They always say, write what you know, and you did that while making it relatable to kids. Kudos!
By Patricia Alcaro on March 21, 2023 at 9:01 am
My best friend growing up was a serious violinist (and often unavailable for fun!) so I can’t wait to read this and share it with her.
By Ilona Bray on March 21, 2023 at 9:05 am
I have stage fright too, to this very day, even though I love to perform. Your book is a delight. Congratulations Molly!
By Sylvia Mary Grech on March 21, 2023 at 9:11 am
Hi Tara & Molly! I’m very excited for this book after meeting Molly at our agency retreat and learning we have music in common. I didn’t realize about the kids’ rock band…love it! I sing for/with kids and teachers every day at school and have no stage fright in that context. But a performance out of that context gets my nerve’s going for sure.
By Janna Matthies on March 21, 2023 at 9:11 am
Everything about this books looks amazing! I can’t wait to read it!
By Kim A Larson on March 21, 2023 at 9:14 am
I needed this book when I was a child Molly! I also used to play violin but gave it up. My son struggles with his piano performances. At least I can share it with my children! Thank you 😊
By jaimegpetru on March 21, 2023 at 9:17 am
Yup, the second before I have to speak, the butterflies do a mad flutter in my belly. I force my mouth open and exhale them. Fly away….
What a wonderful idea for a book. Congrats!
By Leah Marks on March 21, 2023 at 9:20 am
Molly, your book is beautiful! The illustrations are magical. Together, the words and pictures paint a wonderful story. Continued success. (I’m a retired teacher and had stage fright every day in class. I think it’s there to keep us sharp and at our best.)
By Paul Brassard on March 21, 2023 at 9:25 am
Congrats Molly! The spreads look gorgeous! Such an important topic to talk about, too.
By Laura Wippell on March 21, 2023 at 9:29 am
What a relatable story for so many. I definitely get stage fright. Thanks for sharing your tips on how to overcome it and for this awesome giveaway!
By brilawyer on March 21, 2023 at 9:34 am
Boy, does this story resonate. Loved the post! Congrats, Molly – I can’t wait to read your beautiful book!
By clairebobrow on March 21, 2023 at 9:38 am
Believe it or not you can get stage fright on deadline for a newspaper article. I’ll attend a meeting and have an hour to write and send. A quick brisk walk … one minute or two settles down the nerves!
Can’t wait to hug your book! Happy dance!
By Catherine Velasco on March 21, 2023 at 9:48 am
Life often comes full circle. I have returned to my love of the piano.
By Kathryn LeRoy on March 21, 2023 at 9:51 am
Congrats! Presentation anxiety is so relatable. Enjoyed this interview!
By Melissa Coffey on March 21, 2023 at 10:05 am
Thank you for inspiring me to continue…despite all the nerves.
By mightyoaks3 on March 21, 2023 at 10:07 am
Introvert with performance anxiety here, so I appreciate your story and look forward to sharing it. I’m not musical, but my anxiety centered around public speaking (and I taught, like some in these comments, for 40 years). I can’t say I overcame it, but it has mellowed over time. Now I can sleep the night before. 🙂 Thanks for your work.
By Stephanie Wildman on March 21, 2023 at 10:45 am
Thanks for sharing your journey with us. I can think of several children and adults who can relate to this topic. Congratulations!!
By Nancy Ferguson on March 21, 2023 at 11:02 am
Oh, Molly! Your artwork sings across the spreads. Absolutely gorgeous illustrations that beautifully harmonize with your text. My “stage fright” hit early. I was eight. I had won a “How Much I Love My Dolly” writing contest and was asked to come accept the award in front of what seemed thousands of people (most likely 25). My knobby knees wobbled all the way to the stage. But when I saw what I won–a beautiful bride doll enclosed in a satin-lined box–my fright flew away. I walked up, beamed, bowed and smiled wide while accepting my winnings. I know the experience changed me, for 40 years later when I played Anna in the musical “The King and I,” I braved the stage with energetic gratitude, no fear. Your book will connect with so many children AND adults. I can’t wait to read my copy. Sending you energy, strength, and inspiration for your continued success…
By marshaelyn on March 21, 2023 at 11:37 am
Congratulations on your beautiful books . . . and persevering through your stage fright! Stage fright is certainly a universal, relatable topic. I’m eager to read SOMETHING WILD.
By Laurie Seaford on March 21, 2023 at 11:40 am
Great post, Molly and you better be bringing some of those stickers when you come see me in Colorado next week! I am one of those rare people who doesn’t get stage fright but I know it’s one of the most common fears. For those of you looking for more about SOMETHING WILD and Molly Ruttan, she’s coming to my blog in April!
By authorlaurablog on March 21, 2023 at 11:54 am
This is a great topic. Thank you and congratulations!
By Brenda Huante on March 21, 2023 at 12:02 pm
Dear Molly,
Your post has me shedding some tears. I have never read anyone else’s experience of stage fright until now! It’s very revealing that your childhood fright of performing with a musical instrument could be more common than I’ve thought. Thank you telling this story and illustrating the raw emotions for the awfulness of this feeling…I guess some of us are not alone at sea!
I was the daughter of a well-known piano teacher in my town, and my mother had a Spring recital every year. It was a big deal…the kids put on costumes, played 2-3 pieces and of course it ended with refreshments and a celebratory note for the parents and performers. I was 14, so older than most the kids, and took piano lessons from a different teacher. But my mom insisted my brother and I perform at the recital. I was a typical teen in that I drug my feet to practice, and because I had won many piano awards at earlier stages and was well trained, I felt I could just sit down at the piano and play my piece without a hitch. How wrong I was! I flubbed, not once, but several times, and I was overwhelmed with embarrassment. And horror! How could I have done so badly? My perfectionist mother was none too pleased and I got the “I told you so…you didn’t practice enough” speech. She was right, but unfortunately it scarred me for life for playing piano for others. It’s a shame, literally. I’m a perfectionist too (which I’ve learned is not always a positive thing) and it was fully my fault. Even though I have tried to analyze why I cannot forgive my teen self, my stage fright is still a very deep, unreasonable wound. The fear has even come up with other types of performing like giving a talk. However, I am determined to manage it, because for 40 years I have been composing my own music, as well as playing my favorite movie scores or classical pieces but rarely playing them for anyone. Playing brings me joy! My partner has tried to encourage me as she said I must learn to share my gift. It’s just a constant work-in-progress to overcome a lifetime of stage fright. Similar to what you said, I find that the more I practice and focus on the musical expression that can avert the noise in my head about judgment, both past and current.
THANK YOU for being an inspiration for people like me who truly have this issue-as an adult!- and want to “get over it”. It takes bravery to write about such a fearful emotion. Congratulations on picking up your viola and playing again. What a great story of personal triumph that incorporates your full artistic talents!
By Michelle Mullen on March 21, 2023 at 12:18 pm
Congratulations on your new book! It’s one I’m sure my grandchildren will love–especially the shy ones.
By Carol Gwin Nelson on March 21, 2023 at 12:26 pm
Something Wild looks something wonderful! I can so relate – thanks for writing this book and congrats!
By danielledufayet on March 21, 2023 at 12:37 pm
Your journey to publication for this book shows us you wrote about what you know. 🙂 Thanks for sharing the story and a few spreads from your book. It looks so amazing. I don’t think I get stage fright, but after I agree to do something, I often wish I had just said NO! 🙂 It usually turns out well in the end.
By michelerietz on March 21, 2023 at 12:43 pm
Congratulations on your book! Your story definitely resonated with me. I took piano for many years, but the recitals were nerve racking. I didn’t have issues playing instruments with others as a group, but the solos were not good. Thanks for sharing your story. I know a lot of kids will relate.
By Bedwards on March 21, 2023 at 12:47 pm
Oh this looks wonderful! Thanks for sharing your story!!!
By katieschon on March 21, 2023 at 1:03 pm
Stage fright is something a lot of kids can relate to. Congrats on your book.
By Bethanny Parker on March 21, 2023 at 1:04 pm
Congratulations! Your book sounds inspirational. I’ve always dreaded public speaking and performing in public. Somehow, I managed to dance onstage in my high school musicals and teach some classes. Knowing the material is half the battle. It feels amazing to overcome fear and do whatever it is you are afraid of doing.
By Martha Hollenhorst on March 21, 2023 at 1:15 pm
I currently play first chair flute in my concert band and I still get stage fright when it comes to solos. I have to take deep breaths, say a prayer or two (or three), and remind myself that both my band and the audience wants to me to play my best.
By Danielle Hammelef on March 21, 2023 at 1:36 pm
Oh, yes. I can relate, and so can many kids. I was terrified of performing solo as a kid, and now as an adult, I recognize the anxiety and overprepare to deal with it. Congrats on creating this beautiful book!
By Jilanne Hoffmann on March 21, 2023 at 1:40 pm
I love how, through tremendous effort and perseverance, you turned a tremendous struggle into something so inspirational and lovely. My passion as a child was gymnastics, and I really struggled with fear, especially on the uneven bars. I would depend on rituals and superstition (not too uncommon for athletes), but I never had the imagination of this character. Love it! Well done!
By Maria Johnson on March 21, 2023 at 1:45 pm
This looks like a wonderful book. Thank you for sharing its journey with us.
By Lynn Alpert on March 21, 2023 at 2:03 pm
Thanks for sharing your experience, Molly. I love how you highlight your support group. I find my critique group to be so valuable. Congratulations on your career!
By Elise Teichert on March 21, 2023 at 2:34 pm
To deal with stage fright, it helps me to be at an event early so I can get a feel for the layout and ensure all the tech is working.
By Christine Van Zandt, author of A BRIEF HISTORY OF UNDERPANTS on March 21, 2023 at 2:46 pm
Yep. Stage fright here. I’m sure I’ll learn a thing or two from your book! Can’t wait to read it. Congratulations! -Jenn/Ferna (a fellow community chorister 🙂 )
By JF Hall Writes on March 21, 2023 at 2:48 pm
This is beautiful! I always think I won’t get scared anymore, and I can almost convince myself I’ve done it until I feel the thud, thud, thud of my heart beating in my chest. Thanks for sharing!
By Sarah Lynne John on March 21, 2023 at 3:15 pm
Looking forward to this one! Thanks for the great post!
By srkckass on March 21, 2023 at 3:53 pm
Yes, stage fright! But your position is great on the viola after not having played for so long (although you might try dropping your bow elbow a little. My teacher nagged me about that. The downward weight on the bow is supposed to give you more power.)
By Laura F. Nielsen on March 21, 2023 at 4:07 pm
Congratulations Molly! I love your illustration style and know my kiddos will enjoy your book!
By Allison Fleischman on March 21, 2023 at 4:21 pm
I can’t wait to read this book to my daughter! She’s a second grader and terrified of her upcoming piano recital. Thanks for sharing with us!
By Laura Baukol on March 21, 2023 at 4:32 pm
I love your own story and the book story! I too played the violin when I was a girl. I don’t remember stage fright because we didn’t have recitals, but I did give it up when high school struck. However, I still love to hear the violin or fiddle being played and I give you enormous credit for picking up your mother’s viola and having another go at it.
By mariearden on March 21, 2023 at 4:39 pm
Loved your story and always had stage fright before piano recitals as well as the first day of school when I was a teacher (even though I taught for forty years).
By mlyablonaolcom on March 21, 2023 at 6:02 pm
Our library copy of this book just arrived, and I was pulled in by the beautiful cover art. Congrats on the new book! My performance anxiety has come and gone and come and gone over the years. I’m sure it will continue to cycle!
By Deena on March 21, 2023 at 6:03 pm
I can so relate. Have been fearful of talking in front of large groups forever. But when I danced in recitals, that fear dissolved. Weird
By nicolesalterbraun on March 21, 2023 at 7:31 pm
Congratulations on your lovely book! I’m looking forward to reading it!
By Karan Greene on March 21, 2023 at 7:56 pm
I loved reading about your publishing path, your strengths, and your fears. I love writing. I love writing for children and I want them to enjoy reading my stories over and over, but I am fearful of people knowing the face behind the stories. One of my favorite songs says fear is a liar. But, it’s sure hard to walk past fear and let the world see my stories, even knowing my fear is unfounded. You’ve inspired me to keep moving forward!
By Susan Jobsky on March 21, 2023 at 7:56 pm
Such a lovely book! I can relate to stage fright…mostly when I was younger.
By Kathy Doherty on March 21, 2023 at 8:00 pm
Wow, great post! Yes, I absolutely hated speaking up in public–until my picture book came out and it became my job! My first live reading was terrifying, but each subsequent one was easier and easier and finally even fun. But now that there’s been a gap between readings, so seems terrifying to me again. Ah well, maybe I should learn to play violin:–) I love the beautiful art that you shared in this post, and can’t wait to see the real thing. Good luck, this seems like a really lovely book!
By lynnbmaccom on March 21, 2023 at 8:15 pm
Congratulations, Molly!! Stage fright still keeps me from singing solos in choir. My voice squeaks out the words, when they come out at all. I’ll have to reread your book before my next audition!
By Marcia Berneger on March 21, 2023 at 11:59 pm
This sounds like an amazing book!
By elementaryartists on March 22, 2023 at 12:46 am
Molly, this is a delightful book! I do get stage fright! Oh, I just remembered the worst time. I was in high school and we were giving speeches in English. I began my speech, but then began to black out! The noise faded, dark walls were closing in, I had to pause, (panicked the teacher). EEK! She and classmates rushed to get me a chair to sit in. She offered to let me do the speech later, but I was like, NO, I need to do it now. Seated. Whew. Every time I see her around town, we laugh about it.
By Angie on March 22, 2023 at 9:01 am
Love this concept!
By Laura on March 22, 2023 at 10:21 am
Congratulations, Molly! I can’t wait to read this story. I had the same experience as a child. I played piano and saxophone but was absolutely terrified of performing in public.
By Kim Nolan on March 22, 2023 at 10:21 am
I’ve had stage fright my whole life so I can’t wait to read the book. The illustrations look wonderful!
By Kyle McBride on March 22, 2023 at 11:27 am
This is such a relatable fear for most everyone at some point. Dance recitals and band concerts, anything involving a group, never bothered me. But speaking in front of an audience did. My dad suggested I join the debate team in high school to get past that fear. And I loved debating! But still hate speaking in public. LOL.
Your path to finding the story itself was fascinating and I do love your illustrations! Congrats!
By marty bellis on March 22, 2023 at 11:54 am
As an educator I’ve spoken in front of audiences for a very long time….but mainly kids….little kids! I love doing this! Speaking/singing in front of adults is a whole different kettle of fish! I have done it many times (including eulogies for both my parents) and I still get extremely nervous but love doing it anyway.
By Cheryl Coate on March 22, 2023 at 12:06 pm
Wow! What a great story behind the story. I certainly understand the anxiety before talking to a group. I’m excited to read your book.
By Darcee A Freier on March 22, 2023 at 12:49 pm
Thank you for sharing.
By Kassy Keppol on March 22, 2023 at 2:33 pm
Thank you for sharing your story, Molly! It’s pretty incredible how the head and heart sometimes struggle against each. Very inspirational to read how you worked with, and not against, your anxiety to produce what your heart (violin!) wanted to communicate. And thank you for introducing us to The Mulberries! Quite a talented group!
By Karen Elise Finch (@nestofbooks) on March 22, 2023 at 3:10 pm
Molly is certainly multi-talented! Stage fright has never bothered me too much–which is odd, because I’m generally an anxious person. But if I love a subject, I love sharing it with others.
By Janet Frenck Sheets on March 22, 2023 at 5:15 pm
This books sounds so fantastic, and is so needed! I start shaking ANYTIME I’m in front of any crowd. Thank you for sharing your experience and for this beautiful book!
By Rebecca Gardyn Levington on March 23, 2023 at 8:31 am
I definitely can relate to your story. Thanks for writing your book. I’m sure it will help children (and adults, too).
By Sandy on March 23, 2023 at 2:44 pm
Wow Molly I loved hearing the story of how this book came to be. What a beautiful way to take something hard and turn it into a strength!
I love public speaking but performing a skill in front of audience like singing or dancing is really hard for me!
By Shar on March 23, 2023 at 3:26 pm
Such a beautiful story behind your story! Congrats!
By Shar on March 23, 2023 at 3:28 pm
Congratulations on your beautiful book Molly. The topic is sooo relatable! Great post, Tara!
By Kaye Baillie on March 23, 2023 at 6:03 pm
Congratulations, Molly. Oh my, this book looks so beautiful. I played the violin through school and haven’t picked it back up since my last performance playing 1812 Overture with my high school orchestra senior year. It’s a wonderful memory. I’m so glad you started playing the viola. How awesome do you feel for doing that!? You should be so proud. I still don’t have the confidence to do that. Can’t wait to pick up a copy of this. (And the only time I don’t get stage fright is when I’m talking about books :)) ❤️ 🎻
By CJ Penko on March 24, 2023 at 12:01 pm
No stage fright plenty of editor and agent fright. Wonderful that you wrote this book. Good luck with it!
Kay Phillips
By Kay Phillips on March 24, 2023 at 6:06 pm
Congrats, Molly! Looking forward to reading this book.
By Susan Johnston Taylor on March 24, 2023 at 8:35 pm
Congrats, Molly! Oh, how I can relate as an anxious, introverted person (and a performer back in the day)! Thanks for the inspiration! I’m excited to read your book and soak in your art!
By Liz Godfrey on March 25, 2023 at 3:56 pm
Congrats! This story resonates with me and with my writing.
By Jennie H on March 26, 2023 at 12:28 pm
Thanks for your inspiring story and congrats on the publication of your book. I’m sure it will help many kids and adults.
By shirley301 on March 26, 2023 at 12:56 pm
I loved reading this! And I love that you are back to taking lessons on the viola. Wishing you continued successes in the arts!
By Carol Gordon Ekster on March 27, 2023 at 3:06 pm
So great the way artwork and text work together.
By TonyaAnn Pember on March 28, 2023 at 6:03 pm
What a great topic for a picture book. This would be a good story for my niece.
And yes, I do sometimes get stage fright.
By Linda Hofke on March 29, 2023 at 8:38 am
This is a topic of interest to many, I see by the comments. For me as an adult, it depends on the reason I am speaking in front of a group. As a young girl in school, public speaking was horrible for me, traumatizing.This is a book I must get my hands on; it is beautiful!
By Lynn Davidson on March 29, 2023 at 4:52 pm