Danika's Dancing Day: A Dance-It-Out Creative Movement Story for Young Movers (Dance-It-Out! Movement Stories to Spark Imagination and Foster Self-Expression)

This children's dance book is a true treasure. The rhythmic prose and lively illustrations create an atmosphere of pure joy and excitement. Each page is filled with energy, encouraging my kids to get up and move their bodies. I really enjoy seeing they be so playful.

A great book for a budding dancer. Bought for 8 year old.It promotes both reading and being active(dance).

Once Upon a Dance books are a now a staple in our house. Our daughter loves learning and following the movements captured in these stories.

With every sunrise comes the opportunity to create a new and exciting dance performance using inspiration from the outside world. Danika loves to dance, and she wakes each day with the joy that dancing inspires within her. But she does not let her passion distract her from the other chores she must do around the house; instead, she combines the two to create a performance she will not soon forget. Whether waltzing with the vacuum or celebrating nature with the trees and sun outside, Danika embodies the love of dance in everything she does.Fans of the Once Upon a Dance series are sure to connect with Danika and how the spirit of ballet flows through her. Presented like the other books in the series, every page is subdivided into three sections, including a full-page illustration, the narrative itself, and movement suggestions for readers to follow if they desire. A note from Ballerina Konora at the beginning of the book reinforces the message that all readers can participate in the story and they can do so in whatever way feels best to them. Readers can become comfortable with the story first, engage with everything at once, or focus on the dancing and movement as they improve their own technique. Inclusive in design, the Once Upon a Dance stories connect readers around a shared love of dance and movement.Realistically rendered, digital illustrations depict Danika in a world of rich color, surrounded by the imaginary circumstances she creates for herself. Blending her true environment with the performance taking place inside her mind, the narrative allows readers to visually experience just how tangible one's imagination can become. French ballet terms appear in blue, italicized font within the narrative to draw attention to these potentially unfamiliar words, adding a layer of connection to the story for older readers. Budding dancers will find a kindred spirit in Danika and will enhance their own understanding of ballet while observing Danika's behavior and practicing their dance technique alongside her.Overflowing with enthusiasm for ballet, this book is a celebration of all those who live with dance in their souls. Effervescent images of both Danika and Ballerina Konora will inspire children to mirror their movements both while reading the story and after it ends. Though Danika is mostly creating a world inside her mind, her mother makes an appearance at the end and demonstrates a visual representation of love that words alone would not sufficiently express. A glossary of both French language and ballet terms used within the book is found at the end, giving readers the opportunity to better understand Danika's world. This is a delightful and inspiring addition to library collections for young children with a love of ballet.I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.

A very cute and educational dance adventure that children will love participating in! This is a story about a spirited young dancer named Danika who is off on a grand ballet journey, using her imagination along the way.I like how the author always states in the beginning that kids can follow along however they'd like; they can even make up their own dance moves or add different props. It's good to let young children use their creativity when beginning movement exercises.I love the adorable illustrations as well, especially the little animals outside. Recommended for all young children (no dance experience needed). It would also make the perfect recital gift for a little dancer!

Granddaughter enjoyed book

The focus on dance and self-expression is a wonderful way to engage children, encouraging them to explore their own interests and talents. The illustrations seem to add a magical touch, making it a delightful read for kids. Another great book by Once Upon a Dance to inspire kids to move. Five well-deserved stars.

I bought this for our 4 year old granddaughter. I liked it because she loves dance and it has dance moves in it. The story itself was not great and there were many mistakes in spelling and punctuation. I expected something more professional. I would not buy this again.