Goodreads
A gentle tale about a shy young tinkerer and the robot who helps her open the doors to connection and confidence.
In her noisy classroom, Milly is the quiet one: Show and Tell is the worst part of her week. She’d rather hide in her secret place and fix forgotten things. When Milly finds an old, broken robot, she takes out her toolbox and gets to work. But then the robot surprises her: “Hi, I’m Arnold,” he says. Milly has made her first friend—someone who will listen to her ideas and help her with her projects. With Arnold by her side, can even Show and Tell become something better than before?
Illustrated in playful watercolors, The Quiet One is a tender story about how our passions can bring us closer to those around us. This warm, encouraging book will resonate with young introverts, aspiring engineers, and anyone who’s ever longed to have their voice heard.
Yiting Lee’s The Quiet One is a gentle, empowering picture book that celebrates the quiet strength of introverted children. With tender storytelling and charming illustrations, Lee introduces us to Milly, a shy girl who finds her voice through creativity and connection. When Milly discovers and repairs a broken robot named Arnold, she gains not just a new friend but also the confidence to share her passion during the dreaded Show and Tell. This heartwarming tale is a tribute to the power of friendship and the courage it takes to be heard.
At its core, The Quiet One explores themes of self-expression, social anxiety, and the transformative power of creativity. As Milly finds herself within this new space, she becomes more confident in expressing herself in her own way. Too often, adults expect kids to just “fit in.” Introversion is looked down upon. Kids are expected to play together, be friends, talk to adults (except when they’re not!). The Quiet One lets kids know that it’s okay to be introverted. It’s okay to be the quiet one. It’s okay to feel nervous about large groups. Lee’s narrative resonates with young readers who may feel overlooked or hesitant to speak up, offering a reassuring message that their voices matter and deserve to be heard.
The illustrations, rendered in soft watercolors and pencil, beautifully complement the story’s emotional depth. The contrast between the bustling classroom and Milly’s hideaway gives us insight into her internal world, while the detailed depictions of her inventive creations invite readers into her imaginative mind. These visuals blend perfectly with the narrative and encourage young readers to find inspiration in their surroundings and express themselves through creativity.
The Quiet One is a gem that speaks volumes to both children and adults. It’s a must-read for educators, parents, and anyone seeking to understand and support the quiet individuals in their lives. Through Milly’s story, Lee reminds us that every child has a unique spark waiting to shine, and sometimes, all it takes is a little encouragement and understanding to let it glow.