The Bear Who Wanted to Dance - by Stephanie Stansbie (Hardcover)

About the Book

Rita the bear dreams of becoming a ballerina and, with the support of her friend Wanda, works hard to audition for the role of prima ballerina despite not looking like the other dancers.

Book Synopsis

A stunningly illustrated, lyrical story about hard work, determination, body positivity, and representation.

Rita the bear has always wanted to be a ballerina. She begins taking ballet classes with Monsieur le Fox and practices every chance she gets. Her best friend, Wanda, dances with her, and together, they push each other to be the best they can be.

When Monsieur le Fox announces that he's holding auditions for the studio's prima ballerina, Rita decides that she wants the part. But how can she be the prima ballerina when she doesn't look like the other ballet dancers in her class?

A stunningly illustrated, uplifting celebration of hard work, determination, body positivity, and representation.

About the Author

Stephanie Stansbie has been a children's book editor, and then an author, for most of her adult life. She adores editing and writing in equal measure and has always worked on illustrated books, where the art is as important as the word. Stephanie lives in Oxford, England, and enjoys spending time with family and going to the theater.

From an early age, Wendy Warren has drawn, however in her early years, she always drew people wearing ballet shoes as she couldn't do feet very well. Wendy's colorful illustrations are inspired by the people, quirky architecture, and the natural landscape around her. She draws by hand, experimenting with watercolor pencil and crayon.