Dancing Devi

A 2023 IBPA Benjamin Franklin Award-Best New Voice, Children's & YA, Silver; A 2023 NYC Big Book Award-Children's-MotivationalCelebrate the beauty of classical Indian dance while learning to grow through missteps and failuresDevi wants to be a perfect bharatanatyam dancer, just as she believes her mom to be, but she is disheartened when she loses her first dance competition. Devi decides to practice until she is perfect, but no matter how hard she works on her facial expressions or her footwork, she keeps making mistakes. She is at the point of giving up, when Devi's mother shares the mistakes she made while learning how to dance, helping Devi realize that imperfection and failure are a part of learning.A culturally rooted picture book that shares a universal message of dedication and self-love through the practice of a classical Indian dance form.Visit Sambasivan & Parikh's website to download and view free classroom resources for Dancing Devi, including a teacher guide, printable activity kit, and a video flip book.Why Teachers and Parents Love This Book: SEL Focused: Encourages conversations about overcoming self-doubt and perseveranceCultural Appreciation: Introduces elements of Indian classical dance and cultural heritage, fostering curiosity and respectGrowth Mindset: Helps children understand that mistakes are part of learning and growthCreative Expression: Inspires kids to explore the arts as a form of self-discoveryEmpowerment: Reinforces the importance of believing in yourself and embracing your individualityA Perfect Picture Book For: Preschool-Grade 2Confidence-building lessonsUnits on culture, arts, and self-expressionDance and movement activities in classroomsFamilies looking to celebrate Indian identity and heritageA joyful and inspiring story about embracing failures during growth and finding your confidence in moments of self-doubt. Read more