DownloadThe Portobello Bookshop Gift Guide 2024

The Twirly Wiggly Dance

Farrah Riaz author Navya Raju illustrator

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Oxford University Press

Published:1st Aug '24

Should be back in stock very soon

The Twirly Wiggly Dance cover

A story about dancing to your own beat!

Little Intisar has a BIG job at her Auntie Mahira's wedding: she's going to dance in the group performance! But as Intisar struggles with getting the routine right, her family of movers and groovers come to the rescue to show her being herself is far more fun than being perfect.Based on debut author Farrah Riaz's own childhood experiences comes The Twirly Wiggly Dance, a relatable story about dancing to your own beat set against the celebratory backdrop of a South-Asian Muslim wedding, bursting with colourful illustrations by Navya Raju. Perfect for entertaining young twirlers and wigglers! Little Intisar has a BIG job at her Auntie Mahira's wedding: she's going to dance in the group performance! As she practises, she realizes there is one dance move that she just can't do-no matter how hard she twirls and wiggles. Intisar worries she'll ruin the whole routine, and disappoint Auntie Mahira. Can Intisar's family of movers and groovers show her that being herself is far more fun than being perfect? Extra pages at the back of the book with non-fiction information about all the events of a Muslim wedding, make this is a perfect book to read and talk about together.

"It's a lovely story about the importance of confidence and creativity and being true to yourself. For readers not familiar with Muslim traditions, there's a special explanation at the end though there's lots to be learned throughout the story and from Navya Raju's vibrant illustrations." * Books For Keeps *
"This charming story celebrates individuality and the importance of being able to embrace your uniqueness." * Jill Bennett, Red Reading Hub *
"This dazzling debut is an inspirational and educational picture book bursting with colour and celebration... It's a marvellously moving reminder of dancing your heart out and living life to the full, in your own unique way" * Deborah Maclaren, LoveReading4Kids *
"A lovely book that celebrates individuality." * BookTrust *
"Really fun and I loved the message of mistakes not being necessarily bad and embracing all our differences." * Alex Falase-Koya, author of Marv *
"Heartwarming, joyful and bursting with colour... makes you want to get up and dance!" * Amy Sparkes, author of Ellie's Magic Wellies and My Tree *
"A joyful story" * Victoria Lee, Jericho Writers *
"This story is a vibrant and child-centered visual delight, with themes of courage, perseverance and celebrating difference, encouraging readers to dance like no-one's watching." * Clare Helen Walsh, Children's Author of I Love Your More *
"The Twirly Wiggly Dance is a joyous, heart-felt celebration of just how brightly we can shine when we are brave enough to dance to our own beat. With beautiful lively illustrations by Navya Raju, this debut picture book from Farrah Riaz will inspire children to step into the spotlight and let their own unique talents sparkle!" * Kate Thompson, Children's Author *
"A wonderful story about learning to dance like no one is watching. You won't be able to resist cheering on Intisar when the big day arrives!" * Sam Clarke, author of Pink Trucks *
"Wiggle away those worries with this glorious, feelgood story tackling anxiety. Reassuringly relatable text, a vibrant South Asian wedding setting and a 'be true to yourself' message, make this an irresistible addition to any child's bookshelf." * Mariesa Dulak, author of There's a Tiger on the Train *
"This is a gorgeous book, beautifully written and illustrated. Intisar is such a fun, relatable character and a lovely reminder to be yourself and enjoy life!" * Sital Gorasia Chapman, author of The Bedtime Boat *
"The Twirly Wiggly Dance is a joyous celebration of families, traditions and being true to yourself! With loveable characters and vibrant illustrations, it reminds us all to find our own grooves and not to worry about being perfect. Gorgeous!" * Robert Tregoning, author of The Dress in the Window *
"Farrah Riaz's warm, child-centred debut picture book is a gentle story about nerves and anxiety with an uplifting conclusion about embracing imperfection and celebrating individuality. It's a strong message, set against the gorgeous backdrop of a Muslim multicultural wedding, with beautiful and frequently funny illustrations from Navya Raju. I adored it." * Stephanie King, Megaphone *
"The pages are bright and vibrant, full of life. Intisar is a delightful character, and young readers will love her." * Rachell Abalos, author of Our Nipa Hut *
"A joyful, supportive and informative book!" * BookBairn *
"..this picture book will empower young readers!" * Tom Griffiths, Check 'Em Out Books *
"Farrah Riaz has written an inspiring story about courage, determination, and celebrating our differences, that is sure to have you wanting to get up and try out your own special dance moves... Find out about the different types of ceremonies, the vibrant outfits, the use of henna, the wonderful decorations, and so much more in this heartwarming and insightful children's picture book, beautifully illustrated by Navya Raju." * Paul Deslandes, children's author *
"Perfect for the home or classroom, this book is full of positivity..." * Mrs Browns Book Box *
"Add this to your book lists for home and classrooms, it's fantastic!" * Erin Hamilton, My Shelves Are Full *
"A lovely story about the importance of confidence and creativity and being true to yourself." * Lucy Staines, Books for Keeps *

ISBN: 9780192789679

Dimensions: 270mm x 230mm x 3mm

Weight: 172g

32 pages