Ruth Don Shevlin
— writer, artist, teacher, and lifelong storyteller
Ruth’s love for writing began in childhood and led to a creative career in advertising, photography, and early childhood education. From painting ballet backdrops to guiding children in writing their own stories, she’s always believed in the power of imagination and creativity. Her book “Rebecca’s Dream That Wasn’t”, originally written in 1978, remains a beloved story for young dancers facing stage fright. Now retired, Ruth lives near Philadelphia with her family and her 35-year-old ornate box turtle, KC.
Book Signing & Storytelling Event
Host a cozy, memorable event with a live storytelling session and author meet-and-greet — perfect for bookstores, libraries, schools, and community centers.
Classroom Storytelling Visit
A magical in-class storytelling experience that encourages kids to dream big, face their fears, and embrace creativity.
Stage Fright & Self-Confidence Workshop
A gentle, hands-on workshop to help children explore emotions, build confidence, and feel proud of who they are — both on and off the stage.
Rebecca’s Dream That Wasn’t
Rebecca loved to dance. Someday she was going to dance in a theatre with a real stage and velvet curtains wearing beautiful costumes in front of a real audience. The dance studio was her favorite place to be – until one day the teacher told her she would dance the lead part in their upcoming recital of “The Sleeping Beauty”.
This was wonderful terrible news! Wonderful, because it meant that her teacher thought she was dancing well. Terrible, because it meant she would have to dance alone, by herself, on a big stage, which, Rebecca was just discovering, terrified her.
Rebecca’s Story Is Touching Hearts
Full of heart, beautiful illustrations, and descriptive language, Ruth Don Shevlin draws us right into Rebecca’s delima and takes us into a magical night of dancing and magical support!! Just loved this book!
~ Randi L.
Great book for kids! Whimsical illustrations, easy to understand text, and a wonderful message: if you believe in yourself and overcome your fears, you can achieve your dreams.
Many kids (and adults) struggle with fear of taking the next step, fear of criticism, fear of failure…This book is a fun and colorful way to instill confidence and goal-orientation in children. Wonderful gift for little ballerinas but the message is much wider than dance.
Bottom line: this book is dreamy. This will become a bedtime favorite.
~ Katinka
“Rebecca’s Dream That Wasn’t,” is a heartwarming and empowering story about finding courage through imagination written and illustrated by Ruth Don Shevlin. Rebecca is chosen to dance the lead in ‘The Sleeping Beauty’ ballet-but stage fright takes hold. A magical dream with cheering stuffed animals and dolls in her bedroom helps her believe in herself. Thanks Ruth for such a magical and encouraging story about overcoming fear with imagination and heart! Perfect for young readers and budding performers! Highly recommended!
~ Laura S.
This is truly a book that every house should have to read. It tells the story of Rebecca and her great love of dancing. She is given the opportunity to lead in a major performance at her school and she begins to have some doubts. She must look to her courage to find the inner strength to prepare herself for this new challenge.
This book also contains some wonderful illustrations for ballet movements to help kids get a great introduction to the world of dancing. Highly recommended!
~ Kindle Customer
I believe the feelings of imperfection and fears of “performing” are in every single child. This book is very relatable, well written, and the author truly captures those gut feelings. I love the main character’s imagination and her way of overcoming her fear.
~ Pietruszka
“Rebecca’s story is my story. Mrs. Garrett was my teacher. Stage fright is very common for performers of any kind. I hope Rebecca and I can help other little dancers and young performers of all kinds to overcome their fear and just enjoy doing what they love to do.”
~ Ruth Don Shevlin
Dream Big with Ruth – Get Your Free Coloring Pages!
Get Your Free Printable Coloring Pages When You Sign Up
Love Rebecca’s story? Join our community of young dreamers, dancers, readers, and creatives! When you sign up, you’ll receive a FREE printable coloring pages inspired by Rebecca’s Dream That Wasn’t. Featuring beautiful scenes from the story, it’s a fun and creative way for kids to connect with Rebecca’s journey.
By joining, you’ll also get:
✨ Exclusive updates from author Ruth Don Shevlin
🖍️ New printable coloring pages
📚 Event invites and special offers
It’s free, fun, and full of imagination — just like Rebecca!
**These are individual coloring pages that you can download and print at home. Feel free to mix, match, and even staple them together to create your very own coloring book!
Blog
The Dreamer’s Journal
The Real Mrs. Garrett
Mrs. Garrett, Rebecca’s dance teacher in “Rebecca’s Dream That Wasn’t,” was a real person. She was my first dance teacher. She was as I describe her in the book and I truly adored her.
The Back Story and Illustrations
What began as a typewritten manuscript with pencil sketches in 1978 has now become a published book. Rebecca’s Dream That Wasn’t carries a 50-year journey of persistence, family encouragement, and the author’s decision to keep her own illustrations alive for generations.
Featured Interviews
Interview with Miriam Laundry
Ruth Don Shevlin sat down with Miriam Laundry to...
Children’s Books Spotlight Series Ep. #241: Ruth Don Shevlin | Rebecca’s Dream That Wasn’t
Facing Fear, Chasing Dreams: Ruth on PR From The...
From Childhood Dreams to Lasting Impact: Ruth’s Inspiring Interview on CBS 12 News’ ARC Florida
We’re so proud to share that Ruth Don Shevlin...
Ruth Don Shevlin | Author • Artist • Storyteller
Welcome to the official home of Ruth Don Shevlin — author, artist, and storyteller. Discover her beloved children’s book Rebecca’s Dream That Wasn’t, explore creative resources for young readers and performers, and join a community where imagination takes center stage.
Get in Touch with Ruth Don Shevlin
Have a question about Rebecca’s Dream That Wasn’t?
Interested in booking a school visit, storytelling event, or workshop?
Just want to share how Rebecca’s story touched your heart?
Ruth would love to hear from you!
Whether you’re a parent, teacher, librarian, or young reader, feel free to reach out using the form below or via email. Ruth welcomes invitations for author visits, interviews, book signings, and creative collaborations.
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