Otherwise Known as Sheila the Great is a children’s novel by Judy Blume, connected to the Fudge books but centered on Sheila Tubman, a girl who wants everyone to see her as confident, capable and fearless. During a summer in Tarrytown, Sheila has to face exactly the things she tries hardest to hide: fear of dogs, swimming, spiders and the dark, while also trying to impress new friends and keep up the image of “Sheila the Great.” The story combines realistic childhood humor with a sharp look at pride, embarrassment, friendship and the pressure children feel to appear braver than they are. It speaks to young readers who enjoy school-and-family stories, funny misunderstandings and characters who slowly discover that admitting fear can be the first real act of courage.
Author: Judy Blume
Publisher: Yearling
Year of publication: 1972
Number of pages: 128
Original language: English
Age range: 8–12
