The Cat with the Crooked Tail - (Dance-It-Out! Creative Movement Stories for Young Movers) by Once Upon A Dance

About the Book

Each book in the Dance-It-Out! series is an independent story, and this volume is an ideal introduction to the series for kids ages 4-7. A fantastic resource for early childhood, dance, or elementary teachers as well as parents or caregivers who want to share the joy of movement and fantasy fiction. Ballerina Konora offers movement motivation and photos to express the story. Readers can simply enjoy the gorgeously illustrated story, act out the plot in their own way, or follow Konora's suggested moves, designed by an award-winning dance instructor to develop body coordination, focus the breath, and learn dance fundamentals.

Book Synopsis

Miss Merida Brown thinks her tail hinders her abilities, but with help from a friend, she proves herself wrong. This charming story of persistence and self-acceptance highlights the value of practice, friendship, and a good attitude.

Ballerina Konora joins each page with movement inspiration. Three books in one: readers can enjoy the beautiful illustrations, act out the story in their own way, or follow Konora's suggestions, designed by an award-winning dance teacher to improve body coordination and explore dance fundamentals.

This Dance-It-Out! story is ideal for ages 5-7 or kids who have had success with other books in the series.

Review Quotes

Though each book in this series utilizes movements that enhance readers' gross motor skills, this one takes it a step further and introduces a game. Just as Merida goes through an obstacle course in the barn, so too can readers create their own obstacle courses in their homes. Practicing balance, vertical levels, and teamwork, young readers will build their own strength and tenacity while having fun. Perseverance is a major theme in this story, and Merida's model of picking herself back up and trying again is one that readers will be compelled to emulate...

Not only is this an excellent addition to the Creative Movement series, but this book engages readers in movements that are not always directly linked to dance, thereby increasing the accessibility of these stories. This is an excellent addition to movement curricula for preschool and elementary school-aged children.

-Mary Lanni Independent Reviewer