Review of “Ready Set Dance” by Once Upon a Dance

​Score: 95/100 (9.5 out of 10)

This delightful children's book captures the joy, nerves, and unexpected fun of trying something new, in this case, a first dance class!

It's a vibrant addition to Once Upon a Dance's vast collection of children's books.

Stella Maris's illustrations bring every moment to life with charm and whimsy.

The animal cast, led by Bella Beak (a chicken) and Quinn Hops (a frog), embodies the universal experiences of beginners—fear of inadequacy, intimidation, and ultimately, the joy of discovery. The color-coded text helps young readers differentiate between the characters, making it both educational and visually engaging.

Bella and Quinn’s journey mirrors real-life anxieties: "Am I good enough?" "Will I fit in?" Their eventual realization that everyone starts somewhere, and that mistakes are part of learning, is an encouraging message for children and adults alike.

The supporting characters, like Betty the Highland bovine and Kittina the cat (the dance teacher), add layers of humor and relatability.

Kittina’s mix of patience, charisma, and mild frustration with the noisy parents makes her a standout character. The inclusion of Mrs. Jitterstein, the friendly spider who helps guide the students, adds another touch of unexpected charm.

This book goes beyond storytelling by integrating interactive elements like prompts to answer simple questions (like how old the participants/readers are) or spot dance items in the illustrations. These activities make it engaging for young readers while subtly teaching them about dance concepts like plié and barre. It also familiarizes them with ballet attire and equipment, which can be a helpful educational tool!

The narrative’s mix of fun and chaos mirrors the unpredictability of a real dance class. Bella and Quinn’s improvisations and mishaps, like dealing with forgotten uniforms or lacking flexibility, teach readers that adaptability and humor are key in learning new skills. The subtle lesson: dance isn’t just about precision but also about growth, community, and enjoying the process.

Stella Maris's artwork is a standout feature, vividly and adorably portraying the characters and the environments/backgrounds. While the lack of Ballerina Konora’s dance panels was noticeable, the book’s dynamic and bright illustrations help to compensate for her absence. The slight choppiness in pacing, with new events on every page, may feel overwhelming initially but reinforces the theme of embracing the unexpected.

Ready Set Dance is an exuberant celebration of new beginnings. It captures the spirit of a first dance class with humor, heart, and an understanding of the challenges and triumphs young dancers face. It’s a book that entertains, educates, and inspires, making it a worthy read for any child ready to take their first leap into the world of dance.

Check it out on Amazon!