Andi’s Valentine Tree: A Dance-It-Out Creative Movement Story for Young Movers (Dance-It-Out! Creative Movement Stories for Young Movers)

Each Dance-It-Out! story is a kids’ performance for the imagination stage. Andi’s Valentine Tree builds on previous Dance-It-Out! material and is ideal for ages 6+, dance students, or as a sequel to other stories. “…a beautiful story, with interactive activities for those who love to dance and those who wish to learn.” —Readers’ Favorite Andi loves ballet and has lots of friends at the dance studio, but school is a different story. A squirrel named Lou and a remarkable tree provide Andi with much-needed comfort. Then something magical makes life even better. A touching story celebrating the beauty of nature, embracing one’s own passions, and forgiveness. Ballerina Konora joins the pages with dance photos and suggestions for movement exploration. Three books in one: readers can enjoy the story, act out the tale in their own way, or try Konora’s suggested activities, designed by an award-winning ballet teacher to develop body awareness and movement knowledge. The Dance-It-Out! collection spans books ideal for kids 3-9, and this story is one of the most advanced. Featured characters include Andi (nongendered), Lou (she), and diverse male/female school and dance students. Dance-It-Out!s are above level (language-wise) as they are often initially enjoyed with a caregiver or teacher. Dance Steps: With Instructions: • Sous sus • Battement en Cloche • Passé • Piqué Turn • Changement Review: • Ballet Posture • Relevé • Plié/ Grand Plié • Ballet Positions • Tendu • Rond de Jambe • Grand Battement • Sur le Cou-de-Pied • Spin • Jump • Kick Movement Concepts: • Weight • Breath • Energy • Bent/Curved/Straight • Stretching • Relaxation • Movement Quality • Bodies are Unique Main elements include Squirrels, Trees, Ballet School, Single Mom, Bullying, Valentine’s Day, Nutcracker, and Acceptance/Forgiveness. The book would pair well with themes including Leaves, Nature, Fantasy, Magic, Dance, Studying Ballet, Hearts, Friendship, Standing up to Bullies, Impact of Bystanders, Working toward a Goal, and Following your Passions . This movement journey is ideal for dance, creative movement, physical education, homeschool, kindergarten, first-grade, or second-grade activities. The full collection features male, female, and nonbinary diverse characters. Dance-it-Out books make a great gift for boys or girls interested in dance, ballet, gymnastics, or yoga, or reluctant readers who enjoy getting up and moving. About the Author Once Upon a Dance is a mother-daughter pair donating all profits to charity. Ballerina Konora is an apprentice with Ballet Idaho and previously danced with Pacific Northwest Ballet, Aspen Santa Fe Ballet, and Texture Contemporary Ballet. Growing up, she danced iconic roles such as Sugar Plum Fairy and Cinderella. Teacher Terrel taught creative movement and ballet for decades and was recognized by her local City Council (2014) for embodying the spirit of partnership and commitment to children in our community for her work with young dancers. She’s breathed dance from every angle and has worked in education and with various non-profits supporting kids and families. Dance-It-Out! books won several awards in 2021: • PenCraft Award First Place Winner • Mom’s Choice Gold Award Recipient • Royal Dragonfly Book Award First Place • B.R.A.G. Medallion Award • International Impact Book Award Winner • Maincrest Media Award Winner • Pinnacle Book Achievement Award • Literary Titan Book Award • Golden Boar Cover of the Year