Totally Possum

Possum just wants to dance, and she is prepared to DAZZLE! But will one moment change all of this?

About Totally Possum

Possum just wants to dance, and she is prepared to DAZZLE! After an embarrassing moment shatters her dream of performing in the school talent show, she decides to run away deep into the woods. Will she ever dance again?  An early reader chapter book, Totally Possum introduces children to the world of independent reading, while addressing the prevalent emotions of adolescence. Additionally, glossaries are provided to help readers grow their understanding of performance terminology and connect to Chikashshanompa’ (the Chickasaw language).

My Thoughts

Being comfortable and confident in ourselves isn’t easy. It is a skill that takes time to develop and it can be easy to falter and be fearful. I strongly believe that these skills are so important for our little ones to learn, as it is these skills and words that will stay with them as they become adults. This provides them the courage to try new things and to embrace both our strengths and the areas that we aren’t as strong in.

I loved how this book explored how Possum wants to be themself in the beginning – they don’t want to be compared to their siblings and others. They just want to dance and be free to be who they are. But this can be scary when we make a mistake. Possum has the tools (box breathing) to try to work through some of this anxiety, but it can be daunting when something goes wrong and you feel scared and embarrassed.

Possum goes through all of these emotions and more during a performance when they freeze. Possum just cannot escape being frozen and becomes angry, sad and just unhappy and they escape to the woods. Possum goes on a special journey and discovers that this part of them (freezing) is not a weakness, but something that makes them special. After reflection and speaking with other animals, Possum realizes how truly special they are and has the courage to try again. This time Possum is able to find the courage to work through their fears and put on quite the show!

This was a wonderful early reader book for children that teaches us that what may be a perceived weakness is actually what makes us special. It is our own special power to embrace and showcase for the world to see and love.

You can pre-order a copy on Amazon.

About the Author

Trey Hays grew up in Tishomingo, Oklahoma, and has been heavily involved with theater, including productions at Murray State College in Tishomingo, East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma, Tishomingo’s Way Off Broadway Players, and Ada Community Theater. He enjoys, singing, playing the Native American flute, ukulele, guitar, and leading group drumming activities. He also has a love for wildlife and enjoys spending time outdoors. He currently teaches general music at Tishomingo Elementary and believes that fostering a love of music and creative expression makes the world a better place.

About the Illustrator

Eli Corbin has been artistic from a young age. He received his certification in graphic design from Kiamichi Technology Center in Durant, Oklahoma, and enjoys spending most of his free time drawing. Little Loksi is Eli’s debut into the world of book illustration.

Disclosure: I did not receive compensation for this post, all opinions expressed are my own.