The Bear Who Wanted to Dance

Meet Rita, a big bear with an even bigger dream! Rita is a talented dancer—fuelled by a passion for ballet. And she’s top of her class. But when she studies her ballet magazines, and compares herself to her friends, she realizes—she’s the wrong shape! Can Rita find her inner power and confidence in her beautiful big-bear body?

A stunningly illustrated, lyrical take on body positivity and representation from a debut illustrator.

A heartwarming picture book about chasing your dreams, celebrating your differences, and twirling to your own rhythm.

Meet Rita, a big bear with an even bigger dream! Rita is a talented, passionate, hard-working ballerina. And she’s top of her class! But when she studies her ballet magazines, and compares herself to her friends, she realizes—she’s the wrong shape! Can Rita find her inner power and confidence in her beautiful big-bear body?

With lyrical text from Stephanie Stansbie and soft, magical illustrations from debut talent Wendy Warren, The Bear Who Wanted to Dance is a beautiful picture book about self-acceptance, body positivity, representation, and—of course—dancing!

Perfect for sharing with fans of Brontorina by James Howe and Randy Cecil, Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae and Guy Parker-Rees, and Julian Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love. This uplifting story will strike a chord with any child who has ever felt out of place or like they didn’t quite fit the mould.