Grab a scarf. Join the Fun. Get moving and dance along with the kids, Tammy, and Ballerina Konora in this prop-based movement story. Perfect for preschool and kindergarten kids and classrooms.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
Five friends are preparing to embark on an adventure in search of Tammy the Troll, a unique little creature with spiky purple hair and a diamond in her belly button. They must gather supplies before they leave to find Tammy’s home, a hollowed-out tree at the edge of the forest. As the kids pack, Konora (a real-life dancer) gets readers up and has them stretching and squatting.
As we follow the kids on their journey, Konora encourages children to mimic her movements. When the fictional characters traverse over tree roots, up the side of the mountain, or walk across branches, Konora is there giving guidance on moves that children at home can do so they feel part of the adventure. Jumping. Spinning. Movement with scarves. Movement without. Kids will be in constant motion and love every minute of it.
The band of friends brave heights, mice, sticky spiderwebs, and spiders on their grand forest adventure. Their perseverance paid off; they found Tammy the troll. And, let me say, her hair was fabulous! But their adventure doesn’t cease after they give Tammy her special gift. No, they must still navigate the waters before leading Tammy to their home.
The fictional children were tuckered out from their long day and needed a nap. I assume many real-life children will also crave a rest, especially if they follow along with Konora’s very detailed and fun movements.
After the story’s conclusion, there are optional extension activities, such as creating a friendship dance, practicing a bridge pose, and discussing dance/ballet stories like Swan Lake.
Exercise is vital to everyone’s health. Tammy the Troll: A Dance in the Forest by Once Upon a Dance offers the chance to burn off some energy and stretch your muscles while always enjoying a fun story.
This interactive storybook is perfect for preschoolers and kindergartners.
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest)
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤
Meet the Team!
Once Upon a Dance is a mother-daughter team who share a passion for dance and storytelling. Teacher Terrel and Ballerina Konora create books that spark imagination and inspire children to move, breathe, and connect. Four series span ages 3-12:
• Dance Stories with Props (for age 3+) (2023)
• Dance-It-Out! Creative Movement Stories (4-9)
• Dancing Shapes: Ballet and Body Awareness (6-9)
• Ballet Inspiration & Choreography Concepts (8-12)
Once Upon a Dance was named a top 10 author of 2022 by Outstanding Creator Awards, and they’ve been honored by over 40 book awards, 1000+ 5-star reviews, and a Kirkus Star. They donate all royalties to charities supporting the arts, animals, environment, or people. Visit DanceStories.com for more info.
@Once_UponADance (Instagram)
DanceStories.com
Dance Stories with Props
• Quincy’s Sea Surprise (2024)
Dance-It-Out!
• Mira & Marvin’s Magic Mirror Mischief (2023)
• Mira & the Fairy Shoes (2023)
• Zara the Zombie (2024)
• Clara’s College Adventure (2024)
Dancing Shapes with Cats (2023)
Ballet Inspiration
• Falling into Dance with Ballerina Konora (2023)
• Turning it Around with Ballerina Konora’s Mom (2024)