Quiet Storm, (Usborne Books) Kimberly Whittam’s debut novel speaks to those children, of whom there are many, who are shy and quiet, those who struggle to speak up, to ask questions and to join in even when they desperately want to.

Storm is now in her second term in Year 7 at Daisy Mill Academy, Zarrah, her best friend from primary school is not in her form and Storm is finding it hard to make new friends. Her family are boisterous and outgoing, her Dad plays in a band, her Mum has founded a roller skating club and her big brother Isaiah is on the Student Council, in the school band, organising events for charity and popular with staff and pupils. Besides them Storm feels even more quiet and anxious. When her PE teacher spots her talent for running and suggests she tries out for the forthcoming inter schools athletics competition Storm is thrust into the limelight and coupled with friendship issues and having to temporarily move out of the family home she is finding life increasingly stressful. However slowly and with the support of an unlikely ally Storm starts to find her voice.

Kimberly Whittam works in a secondary school in the Special Educational Needs department and her background and experience are evident in the realistic depiction of the characters, both children and adults, and in the details of the school setting. This authenticity adds greatly to the impact of the book. This kind story has a realistic feel that will undoubtedly encourage readers to engage with Storm and her situation. It is wonderful to see a quieter character take a central role in a school story and Storm’s gradual increase in confidence will reassure children who are similar to her in temperament. There is no magic wand involved in her development simply an awareness of her own ability and the value of true, supportive friendship. The author also quietly encourages her readers to see the value of asking for help when necessary.

Published this month, Quiet Storm is perfectly timed to be a transition read dealing with some of the fears children may have about moving on to secondary school in a reassuring and practical manner. The happy ending will soothe worried young readers. A thoughtful, inclusive and positive debut and highly recommended. Thank you to Usborne Books for my review copy.

If you are looking for books featuring children who may be viewed as ‘quiet’ but have something to say and just need a little encouragement or understanding Jo Cummins has recently reviewed a selection, including Quiet Storm, on her Library Girl and Book Boy blog which you may find helpful.