Book Guide

In this inspiring true story, beloved artist Patricia Polacco conquers her fear of public speaking, allowing her to discover her remarkable voice. A wonderful companion to Thank You, Mr. Falker and The Art of Miss Chew, it celebrates the lifelong impact of a great teacher.

Speaking in front of an audience terrifies Trisha. Ending up in Mr. Wayne’s drama class is the last thing she wants! But Mr. Wayne gives her a backstage role painting scenery for the winter play. As she paints, she listens to the cast rehearse, memorizing their lines without even realizing it. Then, days before opening night, the lead actress suddenly moves away, and Trisha is the only other person who knows her part. Will the play have to be canceled? It won’t be an easy road—when Trisha tries to recite the lines in front of the cast, nothing comes out! But Mr. Wayne won’t let her give up, and with his coaching, Trisha is able to become one of his true masterpieces.

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Patricia Polacco

Patricia Polacco

1944 -
American
Patricia Polacco comes from a large family of fine storytellers, and her stories reflect that rich family heritage. Luba and the Wren carries o... See more

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Reviews

Kirkus Reviews

Mr. Wayne's Masterpiece
The terrible fear of speaking in public in front of others—no words will come out, no terror like it—is given passionate form in Polacco’s latest, based, as her books often are, on an event from her own life...

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Plumfield Moms

Mr. Wayne’s Masterpiece
Reviewed by Sara Masarik
Patricia Polacco’s autobiographical picture books have a way of speaking directly to the heart, and Mr. Wayne’s Masterpiece is no exception. This inspiring story follows Polacco’s own journey as a shy and anxious girl who overcomes her fear of public speaking with the help of a kind and encouraging drama teacher. Like all of her other autobiographical books, this one is inspiring and well-told.

Read the full review on Plumfield Moms