Society tells that us that being shy is a fault, but Annie Ridout says it's a gift. Shy: How being quiet can lead to success teaches us how to embrace this misjudged attribute, instead of trying to fix it. Most of us have some understanding of shyness. From birthday parties as children to office Christmas parties as adults, from an old friend's wedding to a group presentation, we've all experienced it in some form or other. Shyness may be ever-present or it may come and go. Partly genetic, partly environmental, shyness is largely viewed as a character flaw, something that needs to change, but why is no-one talking about the benefits of being shy? For example, shyness usually equates to being an excellent listener, considerate speaker and thoughtful observer. Interweaving personal experience with expertise from clinical psychologists, Annie explores why shyness affects some more than others, and offers tried-and-tested tools to help the reader deal with elements of shyness that can feel debilitating. Shy recasts our understanding of this often-misunderstood attribute, celebrating it as a pathway rather than a barrier to success and happiness.

Gold title Annie's profile has continued to grow, with nearly 15k followers on Instagram. Her own personal business aimed at working women has become hugely successful and she can draw on these contacts for endorsements. The Freelance Mum had some fantastic quotes and gained brilliant publicity coverage and we expect to increase that coverage with Shy. Shyness is a topical issue and this book is tapping into a timely narrative/discussion with a fresh angle. Comp titles include Quiet: The Power of Introverts In a World That Can't Stop Talking, Sorry I'm Late I Didn't Want to Come, The Freelance Introvert. Competition: Quiet: The Power of Introverts In a World That Can't Stop Talking, Sorry I'm Late I Didn't Want to Come, The Freelance Introvert; Notes on a Nervous Planet; Simple Small Talk. Susan Cain; Jessica Pan; Tom Albrighton; Matt Haig; Gerard Shaw.