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Under Pressure tells the inspiring childhood story of Freddie Mercury, long before he became a global music legend. As a young boy named Farrokh Bulsara, he studied at a boarding school in India, far from his family and the comfort of home.

Shy and sensitive, Farrokh often found himself the target of teasing and unkind remarks from other boys. The loneliness of boarding school, along with the pressure of performing in front of others, sometimes made him doubt himself. Yet one thing remained constant—his deep love for music.

When the opportunity to perform at a school event arrives, Farrokh must confront both his stage fright and the unkind behaviour of his classmates. With the encouragement of friends and the courage to trust his talent, he sits at the piano and begins to play. As the music fills the room, something remarkable happens: the same children who teased him are captivated by his performance.

This picture-book biography captures a powerful moment in the childhood of the boy who would grow up to become Freddie Mercury. More importantly, it shows how creativity, resilience, and confidence can transform moments of fear and exclusion into triumph.

Why Should a Child Read This Book?

Many children experience moments when they feel nervous, unsure of themselves, or hurt by teasing from others. This story shows that even someone as extraordinary as Freddie Mercury once struggled with the same feelings.

By following Farrokh’s journey, young readers learn that being teased or bullied does not define who they are. Instead, courage, kindness, and belief in one’s abilities can help overcome difficult situations.

The book also demonstrates how art—whether music, drawing, writing, or any other creative expression—can become a powerful way to express emotions and build confidence.

Ultimately, the story reassures children that their unique talents and passions deserve to be celebrated, even if others do not understand them at first.

What Are the Learnings?

Standing up to bullying
The story highlights the emotional impact of teasing and shows that perseverance and self-belief can help children overcome unkind behaviour.

Self-confidence and resilience
Farrokh’s journey demonstrates that fear and self-doubt are natural, but they can be overcome through courage and determination.

The power of creativity
Music becomes Farrokh’s way of expressing himself and finding strength, showing children how artistic expression can help them cope with difficult emotions.

Empathy and kindness
Young readers are encouraged to reflect on how their actions affect others and why kindness matters in friendships and classrooms.

Celebrating individuality
The story reminds children that everyone has unique talents and interests, and these differences are what make each person special.

How to Use This Picture Book

1. Start conversations about bullying
Adults can ask children how Farrokh might have felt when he was teased. This opens up discussions about bullying, kindness, and how to support classmates who may feel excluded.

2. Encourage emotional expression through art
Children can be invited to draw, sing, or play music to express how they feel. This reinforces the idea that creativity can help manage difficult emotions.

3. Talk about courage and performance
Teachers can discuss stage fright and encourage children to share times when they felt nervous but tried something brave.

4. Classroom discussions about kindness
Educators can use the story to build empathy by asking students how they can create a classroom environment where everyone feels respected.

5. Role-play activities
Children can act out situations involving teasing and practice ways to respond kindly, support friends, or ask for help from adults.

6. Introduce children to music and cultural icons
The book can serve as an engaging introduction to the life of Freddie Mercury, showing how childhood passions can grow into lifelong achievements.