Tess Finds Quiet

Tess goes to the library with Nana. Children are singing in the story corner. Tess likes the picture book on Nana’s lap. Today, the singing feels loud.

Tess covers her ears. Nana notices and stops turning the page. “Too loud?” she asks. Tess nods. They can move away from the sound.

Mr Bell shows them a quiet seat by the window. Nana asks Tess if she would like to go there. Tess takes her hand and stands up.

At the window, the singing sounds farther away. Tess rests against a cushion. Nana keeps the book closed for a moment. There is no hurry to start.

Tess points to the cover. “That one,” she says. Nana opens the book and reads softly. Tess can look, listen or ask for another pause.

When they leave, Tess waves to Mr Bell. She feels comfortable now. The quiet seat helped her enjoy a story in her own way.