Valerie: It was actually my editor, Jes Negrón, who came up with the cultural dance theme. Everything from Baz Luhrmann’s “Strictly Ballroom” to the Japanese version of “Shall We Dance?” to the documentary “Mad Hot Ballroom.” Your book is every bit the same cultural delight in movement. Me: I love a good ballroom dancing movie. I strive to promote a world of equity and inclusion – of peace and joy – and I can do that with my words and in my interactions with children as I share my books with them. I think about those children, who are now adults, as well as my young nieces, ages 5 and 7. When I taught elementary students, it was difficult to find diverse literature for them. I want all children to feel seen and heard, valued and validated. Valerie: Children need to see themselves in books. Me: What draws you to writing picture books in particular? The illustrations by Maine Diaz are also able to capture that movement and glee that is so inherent in children’s dance. Somehow, this book was able to capture in words the joys of movement and the variety of dances that kids might enjoy. “Let’s Dance” is a delightful look at dance around the world. You can learn more about her at her website. In addition to writing picture books, she has also written magazine articles and poetry. Valerie Bolling has been an educator for over 25 years and a writer since age 4. I always love hearing what succeeded for someone’s first publication. Today’s Simply 7 is with another debut picture book author.
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