A Children’s Picture Book by Melissa Sullivan-Noonan
Age Range: 4–9
Word Count: ~993
Illustrated Picture Book
Hook:
Hadley is quiet, careful, and often overlooked next to her bigger-than-life, high-energy brother, Max. But when a ballet recital puts her in the spotlight, Hadley learns that being quiet doesn’t mean being invisible and discovers her own kind of bravery.
Illustrator Notes
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Max: Rosy, chubby cheeks, full of impulsive big energy, funny and expressive.
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Hadley: Delicate, sweet, observant, quiet but expressive when safe.
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Both: Soft, round cheeks, fair skin, and expressive eyes.
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Key scenes: Max in a duck costume with a tutu and yellow wellies, Hadley’s quiet joy at rainy day recess, and the spotlight moment of Hadley’s ballet solo.
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Tone: Warm, funny, honest, with layered emotion.
Story Summary
Hadley is the quiet sibling, content with books, puzzles, and good grades. Her brother Max is the opposite, a whirlwind of noise, humor, and constant motion. While Max garners extra attention for his struggles and antics, Hadley often wonders if being the easy child means being unseen. At school and at home, she watches from the wings until a ballet recital gives her a chance to step into the spotlight. With Max cheering her on (in his own chaotic way), Hadley discovers that quiet strength shines just as brightly as loud energy. Hadley in the Wings is a heartfelt, humorous story about siblings, self-expression, and the courage to be seen.
Themes & SEL Connections
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Sibling Dynamics – The experience of being the quiet or ‘easy’ child in a high-needs family
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Identity & Belonging – Finding your voice and being seen for who you are
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Emotional Resilience – Building quiet confidence alongside loud personalities
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Neurodiversity Awareness – Max’s exuberant ADHD-like traits create contrast and humor
Comparable Titles
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The Invisible Boy (Scholastic, 2013) – A quiet child finds belonging and recognition.
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Quiet Please, Owen McPhee! (Disney-Hyperion, 2018) – Highlights differences in communication styles.
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The Day You Begin (Nancy Paulsen Books, 2018) – Emphasizes bravery in sharing your voice and identity.
