Devika Oza – illustratör

Delight in the ringing of ankle bells and the swish of colorful scarves as Bollywood dance is described in playful rhymes.

Two sisters arrive for the Masala Magic Dance Recital. They join the other performers to get ready. “Rustle, hustle.” And watch the opening act. “Wiggle, giggle.” Then it’s older sister’s turn. “Flickity-flip. Thumka-hip.” The families in the audience join in. “Toes tap. Hands clap.” It’s a wonderful time. Until … uh-oh. Younger sister has second thoughts about performing! “Heart-stopping.” With a gift and a bit of encouragement from older sister, little sister steps on stage. “Thumka-hip. Flickity-flip.” The audience is invited to participate. “Hustle, rustle.” And soon everyone is dancing to the Bollywood beat!

The joy is infectious in author Anita Yasuda’s lyrical romp of a picture book, and children won’t be able to resist dancing along! Bollywood culture is on full display in this delightful celebration of family, tradition and dance. Yasuda cleverly repeats the same rhymes from the first part of the story in reverse order to tell the second part of the story. The deep, rich colors in Devika Oza’s mesmerizing art bring the dance recital to life, exquisitely conveying the movement and emotions of the dancers and the audience, as well the street where the recital is set. The back matter includes a brief glossary of terms.

Teach your children the joy of embracing their own differences and accepting the differences of others. There is no wrong way to eat a cupcake!

You are an amazing parent and want your kids to love everything about themselves, and to love others for their differences too. Whether that is race, ability, or behavior. The things that make us different make us special!

Learn social-emotional learning (SEL) through a fun story filled with kindness!

This charming story filled with humor and heart will help your child see that the things that make us different make us special, and are the best way that we can help others. In the story Charlie likes to be very careful. But, sometimes it makes him feel... different. When he is invited to a very unique birthday party he finally learns to embrace what makes him special. 

"I am glad you are careful," Sarah told me. "Only you could help Luke."

More than a Story.

Not only will your children learn inclusion, acceptance, and kindness as they read, but by purchasing the book they are giving back to the wonderful organization highlighted in this story that is giving meaningful work opportunities to individuals with special needs, "Special Kneads and Treats Inc."