One sentence summary
Giraffes Can’t Dance is a funny, heartwarming story about an awkward giraffe that discovers its hidden talent and teaches everyone the power of perseverance and self-acceptance.
Book genre
Giraffes Can’t Dance is a children’s picture book.
Main topic of the book
Giraffes Can’t Dance is a story about a shy giraffe named Gerald who, unlike the other animals, cannot seem to dance. Through his courage and determination, he eventually finds his own unique dancing style and learns the importance of being true to himself.
Key ideas
- Discovering the joy of dance
- The power of self-acceptance
- The importance of perseverance
Main parts of the book and a short summary
Giraffes Can’t Dance tells the story of Gerald, a shy giraffe who feels excluded from the other animals’ dancing because of his tall stature. After feeling discouraged and embarrassed, Gerald decides to take dancing lessons from a cricket. With the cricket’s encouragement and guidance, Gerald discovers that he can dance if he finds his own “groove”. Gerald’s determination pays off and he ends up winning the boisterous Echoes, the loudest and most enthusiastic dance of all.
Key takeaways
- You don’t have to be like everyone else to find success
- Appreciation for diversity is important
- You can do great things if you never give up
Author’s background and qualifications
Giles Andreae is an internationally acclaimed author and illustrator who has won numerous awards for his work. He is best known for his bestselling book, Giraffes Can’t Dance, and for his other series of children’s books, Purple Ronnie and Edward Monkton.
Target audience
Giraffes Can’t Dance is designed for children aged 3-7.
Publisher and first publication date
Giraffes Can’t Dance was originally published by Orchard Books in 1999.