Emma is keen to join the Cartwheel Club with the other girls at school. She lines up each Monday as that is try-outs day. At least according to bossy Carly, who seems to be in charge of the Cartwheel Club.

Emma’s cartwheels aren’t good enough – according to Carly.

At home, Emma practices and tumbles and whirls until she’s sure her cartwheels are perfect.

They still aren’t good enough – according to Carly.

When try outs come round again Emma’s cartwheel is so good she’s finally part of the Cartwheel Club. At least until Carly changes the rules.

Emma looks around the school yard at all the other children.

She makes her own lunchtime club and – according to Emma, everyone is invited.

Wanting to be part of a group is a natural part of growing up, and Emma does everything she can to fit in.

More often than not, there can be a character just like controlling Carly who makes the rules, or changes them to suit. Making fun of Emma goes along with this unfairness, until Emma sees a way clear of Carly and her exclusive Cartwheel club.

Not only is she happier, so are many others around her.

A wonderful story about finding your own strength, stepping away from those who make you feel bad, or put you down, and making goods things happen yourself.

Author – Amy Adeney

Illustrator – Amy Calautti

Picture Book

See Teacher’s Notes here

Find more excellent books on Children’s Challenges here

(2021, EK Books, Exisle Publishing, School, Fitting in, Belonging, Exclusion, Playground, Bully, Practise, Happy, Kindness, Real friends, Children’s Challenges)