Stacey Coolidge's Fancy-Smancy Handwriting: A Story about Staying True to Yourself

An encouraging picture book about handwriting struggles, confidence, and staying true to yourself

Second grader Carolyn starts the year feeling excited--she loves her teacher, her classroom, and especially Frederick, the class guinea pig. But everything changes the day cursive handwriting begins.

Somehow, her classmate Stacey Coolidge's letters are perfectly slanted and beautifully curved. She hardly ever uses her eraser. Meanwhile, Carolyn's paper is full of smudges, torn holes, and worn-out spots from pressing too hard. No matter how much she practices, her handwriting just doesn't look "perfect." And when her work is displayed next to Stacey's fancy-smancy cursive, Carolyn is sure hers is the worst in the class.

With warmth and wisdom, Mrs. Thompson helps Carolyn see something important: handwriting is just one tool in the learning toolbox. Practice helps us grow--but perfection isn't the goal. What truly matters is creativity, effort, and believing in your own strengths.

Part of the Adventures of Everyday Geniuses series, this heartfelt and humorous picture book gently explores:

• Struggling with new skills in school
• Anxiety about comparing yourself to others
• Growth mindset and perseverance
• Celebrating individual strengths
• Building confidence beyond perfection

Perfect for ages 4-8, and ideal for classrooms, counselors, and parents, this uplifting story opens meaningful conversations about frustration, resilience, and self-worth.

Because every child has different strengths--and that's exactly what makes them extraordinary.

BARBARA ESHAM is the author of the Adventures of Everyday Geniuses series and the former owner and CEO of Mainstream Connections. She lives in New England with her daughters.