About The Book

Acting isn’t about pretending, it’s about doing. And for performers of all ages, that starts with believing the make-believe and supporting your fellow actors.

Written especially for children aged 8-13, this encouraging and practical guide offers everything a young actor needs to get started, from understanding characters and scripts to handling nerves, auditions, rehearsals, and even working on camera.

Whether it’s for a school play, a drama class, a paid job, or simply a love of storytelling, this book helps children explore the craft of acting with confidence and creativity.

Colorful drawing of a young boy with dark hair, big golden eyes, wearing an orange hoodie, holding a clapperboard and a script.

For Parents & Carers

A happy girl with curly hair and a green jacket stands with her hands on her hips, surrounded by colorful blocks. She is dreaming of a pink castle with two towers, purple roofs, and flags, during a sunny day with clouds in the sky.

Written by Timothy Wilde, an award-winning writer, director, and drama teacher, this book provides age-appropriate insights, clear advice, and supportive guidance to help your child step into the world of acting safely, joyfully, and well-prepared.

About The Author

Timothy Wilde is an award-winning writer, director, and drama teacher based in Australia. For over twenty-five years, he has helped hundreds of performers of all ages discover their passion for acting on stage and screen. He wrote this book because his nine-year-old niece, Sylvie, wanted to read something that could help her become a great actor. This book is for her - and for every young performer ready to take their first step on stage or in front of a camera.

Hand-drawn portrait of a man with short gray hair, glasses, and a beard, wearing a pink chef's jacket.

About The Illustrator

Courtney Cottle is an Australian artist, actor, filmmaker, and illustrator whose work is driven by a deep engagement with storytelling across disciplines. A student of the author, she brings a performer’s sensitivity and a filmmaker’s eye to her visual work, grounding each illustration in character, emotion, and intention. In this book, Courtney’s hand-drawn illustrations reflect the joy, vulnerability, and imagination at the heart of performance, helping young readers connect emotionally with the ideas on the page.

Colorful illustration of a girl experiencing multiple emotions, including happiness, sadness, anger, and frustration, with swirling lines and sparkles around her.