The chicks first introduced in Chicks Rule! (2019) put their talents to good use in this upbeat companion title. Rocker Chick is filled with excitement when she is invited to be the headliner for a "Big Wing-Ding." She gathers her guitar and song books and heads out to dress rehearsal. Unfortunately, when she sees the enormous venue, Rocker Chick is struck with a powerful case of stage fright, shouting "I'm too chicken!" when it's her time to sing. No need to fear! Her friends flock to her aid, using their talents to help her get ready and restore her confidence. Pop Chick teaches her dance moves, Artsy Chick does her makeup, and Zen Chick helps her with the stress. When the time comes for Rocker Chick to perform, she spots her friends and rocks her heart out for the cheering crowd. The saturated, cartoon illustrations are wonderfully cute and encompass a range of individual talents and styles. Panel art moves this story of friendship and teamwork along quickly for a lighthearted yet relatable read.

A cool cat, er, chick suffers from stage fright.Rocker Chick has all the gear: star-shaped glasses, a pink skull-and-crossbones sweater, and an edgy, purple guitar. She thrashes around her bedroom, wailing blistering solos and belting out ballads. But her audience has only ever been her stuffed animals. When given the opportunity to star at a "big wing-ding," she can't wait. However, as she climbs the tall, hay-bale stage during rehearsal and is thrust into the spotlight, she freezes. Luckily her chick pals use their own individual strengths to help. Zen Chick leads some calming breaths, Artsy Chick (who is wearing a head covering) does makeup, and Coding Chick controls the lights. The whole clutch pitches in to show Rocker Chick she is not going through this alone. True to its musical core, Bardhan-Quallen's text has a lively spring, which is snappy to read aloud and helps to soften the platitude: "Rocker Chick says, ‘Thank you all- / you helped me reach my dream.' / Her friends reply, ‘That's why we're here.' ‘We're always on your team!' " Kurilla's bean-shaped chicks are as cute and thoughtfully developed as in the story's predecessor, Chicks Rule! (2019). Sly barnyard wordplay is also included, "poultry in slow motion" being a highlight. (This book was reviewed digitally with 10.5-by-17-inch double-page spreads viewed at 47.8% of actual size.)A quick boost of confidence from a flock of friends. (Picture book. 3-6)