P.S. ARTS recently launched a new series, Arty’s Book Nook, aimed at engaging our audiences through children’s books focusing on authors, individuals, or messages that have the power to change the world through the arts. Below are some words from our host and P.S. ARTS Instruction & Curriculum Specialist, Donzell Lewis, on this month’s Book Nook selection, “Giraffes Can’t Dance” by Giles Andreae and illustrated by Guy Parker Rees.
“Giraffes Can’t Dance” by Giles Andreae and Guy Parker Rees isn’t just any ordinary story—it’s a wild, joyful adventure packed with a powerful message that both kids and adults will adore. Dive into the heart of the jungle and meet Gerald the Giraffe, whose legs don’t quite fit the groove of the popular Jungle Dance. But hey, that doesn’t stop him from trying!
Gerald’s all pumped up for the Jungle Dance, but instead of cheers, he’s met with giggles and teasing from his fellow jungle pals. Gerald takes a step back. Feeling alone and a little foolish, he heads home. But fear not! With a little encouragement from an unexpected friend—a wise cricket—Gerald learns a lesson that rings loud and clear: “…Sometimes, when you’re different, you have to dance to a different song.” And guess what? That’s exactly what he does!
Jump back to the big night of the Jungle Dance, and Gerald’s stealing the show! How did a story about dancing end up teaching such a big lesson about belonging, you ask? Well, let’s break it down:
Firstly, Gerald embraces his differences and discovers that they’re not weaknesses, but strengths! He learns that it’s totally cool to be different, think differently, and yeah, dance differently too. Once Gerald finds his own unique rhythm, all the other animals can’t help but cheer him on and even ask to join in! Gerald doesn’t change a thing about himself to fit in. Nope! He stays true to who he is, and that’s what makes him an awesome dancer despite the haters.
Secondly, finding a sense of belonging means finding your own tune. It’s about accepting yourself, embracing what makes you, well, you! Sure, there might be some folks out there trying to rain on your parade, but if you let their negativity get to you, you’ll miss out on finding your own groove.
So here’s the deal: Believe in yourself, march to the beat of your own drum, and you’ll attract the kind of community that celebrates you for you. Don’t let anyone dim your light or tell you what you can or can’t do! Remember, if Gerald can find his song to dance to, so can you!
So take a moment to ponder: Ever had someone tell you that you can’t do something? How did you prove them wrong? Is there something you’ve given up on because you were worried about what others might think? Well, it’s never too late to reclaim your power and find your unique dance! So go out there and march to the beat of your own drum– moving and grooving to all the things that celebrate the uniqueness of you.
Hear Donzell read Giraffes Can’t Dance for our third installment of Arty’s Book Nook on YouTube and follow us on social media for updates!
About Donzell Lewis:
P.S. ARTS’ Curriculum & Instruction Specialist, Donzell Lewis, is a highly acclaimed youth theater educator/director, actor, and comedian, known for his exceptional talent and dedication to the arts. Previous to becoming the Curriculum & Instruction Specialist, Donzell dedicated a decade of his career as a Theater Teaching Artist for P.S. ARTS, where he successfully implemented a comprehensive theater program for grades TK-5. His approach is guided by a commitment to radical inclusivity, acknowledging and respecting diverse cultural legacies, challenging euro-centric standards, and engaging in courageous conversations that drive social change.
About Arty’s Book Nook:
Arty’s Book Nook is a series by P.S. ARTS that explores the magical worlds of art and reading through picture books about people who change the world through art. In this brave space, we invite young artists to embark on adventures, discovering the joy of storytelling and the wonders of creative expression. Through curated books and activities, we invite readers, artists, and learners to join us as we dive into worlds where every heart finds its place. Arty’s Book Nook selections are read by P.S. ARTS’ Curriculum & Instruction Specialist, Donzell Lewis.
