I Will Dance Written by Nancy Bo Flood and Illustrated by Julianna Swaney

Like many young children, Eva loves to dance and dreams of being a dancer. However, Eva has cerebral palsy and she doesn’t know how someone in a wheelchair could possibly manage to dance.  She knows that she was not supposed to live for even one minute, but she has survived for ten years of minutes, well beyond anyone’s expectations. Though she can only move her head, arms, and fingers, the desire to dance is strong in her heart. Though she is sick of pretending to dance, she loves how music speaks to her so she continues to dream of dancing. One day, Mom finds an article in the newspaper that is a call for dancers of all abilities. Eva is unsure; what will the other dancers feel about someone in a wheelchair? Eva swallows her fears and decides to find out.

Since 1987, the Young Dance company has promoted the joy of dancing and has encouraged dancers of all abilities to be part of their inclusive community. For more information visit youngdance.org

Author Bo Flood watched rehearsals of the Young Dance Company and what she witnessed inspired her to write this touching text.

Illustrator Swaney’s use of muted colors and lively art swirls in and out of the text to reach readers’ hearts.

Highly recommended for inclusion in any home, school or public library.

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