Stella the Star

by Mark Shulman

Stella's parents are so proud. Her teacher wants her to be the star in the school play. So her parents take her shopping for new shoes and a new dress, get her hair cut at a fancy salon, and buy the best camera there is to take pictures during the show. After all, only the best will do for their star. After much anticipation, the adorable Stella wins the hearts of all audiences and makes her parents very proud in this charming story with a surprising finale.

Genres: Picture Books

32 pages, Hardcover

First published April 1, 2004

Reviews

[Cayia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Stella The Star is a sweet story about young Stella who is chosen to be a star in her upcoming school play. When Stella's parents hear that she is going to be a star in the show, they think that she is going to be a main character, not an actual star. Throughout the story Stella's parents take her shopping to prepare her for her big day, while Stella is primarily concerned about making her parents proud. When Stella's big moment as a twinkling star comes at the end of the show, her parents realize that she is a literal star, not a star of the show. Even though it is not what they expected, Stella's parents are extremely proud and happy. One of the themes throughout the story is being proud. Stella's parents are extremely proud to hear that she will be the star of the show, while Stella's main concern is ensuring that they stay proud of her on the night of the show. Even when things change, Stella’s parents are still extremely proud of their little girl, which in return makes her proud of herself. This theme is seen throughout the entire book, through every character and their relationships. No matter how big or how small of a role we may play in something, it can make a difference and is always a reason to be proud. I really enjoyed “Stella the Star” because of the twist ending, and the message that it can relay to children. As a reader, you are expecting Stella to be the lead role in the play, rather than a smaller role. When this unexpected ending comes, Stella’s parents are still just as proud of her. Being proud of ourselves, friends, and family, is so important, even for the small things. This book is a great way to teach young children that even the small roles are important, and very special. I recommend this book because of the lessons it can provide to children, and fun story line that will engage them.

[Kena Kump · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very cute story. I like this one because I always wanted to be a star when I'm on stage singing. But she was dressed like a star and parents got confused what she was and went out and made a big deal of her being the "star," how funny. A great way to teach kids about homonyms.

[Anne Newell · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a cute book to read to K and 1st grade. How entertaining that Stella's parents thought she was the "star" of the play. She was literally the star (twinkle, twinkle) and only in the play for a minute. Her parents were still proud of her as she was of herself.

[Willow Sommers · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Picture Book) So cute! She's "the star" and her parents make a big deal about it. Almost funnier for adults or older kids. But younger kids would think it is cute too.