Sora searches for a song

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Evening is falling, and little Sora the cricket scoots in close to her companions as they begin to sing their nightly chorus. However, Sora is unable to create a song along with everyone else, and Sora's silence is soon noticed by the others. Since the other crickets are convinced Sora's lack of song is due to an absence of an imagination, Sora is directed to venture out into the wider world in search of a song. Along the way, Sora encounters songbirds, fish, and trees who all make music of their own, and each creature enhances Sora's understanding of the sounds they make. Surprising moments lead to an even more wonderful discovery as Sora ultimately returns home once more. 

This newest in the Dance It Out Creative Movement series by Once Upon a Dance will quickly become a family favorite. Like the others in the series, this book features a positive and affirming story, vibrant illustrations, and a movement guide for readers to take the book into their own bodies. This tale in particular is one that reminds readers of the power their mind holds, especially when it shouts about being incapable of something. Together with Sora, readers will observe how strength of will and belief in oneself can lead to beautiful outcomes.

The illustrations in this book are among the most captivating of the entire series, especially as they enchantingly capture the essence of the outside world and the colors it contains. The images are expressive and eye-catching, and readers of all ages will find themselves drawn to each page. Written for an elementary school-aged audience, the narrative supports social-emotional learning as well as proprioception and body awareness in an age-appropriate and compelling way. Additionally, Sora is gender flexible, so every reader may find themselves in this approachable character. This is a high quality addition to both the series as a whole and to library collections for young readers.

—Mary Lanni, Indepentdent/Librarian Reviewer

Review Excepts
"This amazing book by Once Upon a Dance and Christina Herbert is nothing short of splendid." 

—Readers' Favorite

“…phenomenal children's book…

…The truth is, we often underestimate how powerful, talented, incredible, and influential we are…”

… This is probably THE BEST children's audiobook we've listened to. 

—Outstanding Creator

A charming children's book with valuable basic dance lessons on every page.

—Kirkus Reviews

Punchy, superbly illustrated and packed full of fun - and dance!

—The Wishing Shelf

…a wonderful, inspiring tale about finding your own voice, believing in yourself, and the value of imagination.

—Tales from A Dragon

Dance your way to believing in yourself and image yourself being anything you want!

—Reedsy

The different creatures produce many sounds and move in various ways, balancing, stretching, crawling and slithering. Ballerina Konora invites the reader on each page, to explore their own body and ignite the imagination and share the joy of movement and self expression. The illustrations are stunning, magical and so colourful drawing you in to the details within in picture.

—ShedTimeStories

Sora Searches for a Song from Once Upon a Dance will delight children and adults with its synthesis of story and movement.

Once Upon a Dance features several creative works that combine reading with physical activity, and this book delivers that pairing with gusto. Beginning with a beautiful overview of a marsh, we are introduced to Sora, a little cricket who everyone says has no imagination. In place of imagination, however, this cricket has the remarkable gift of transformation. Sora discovers the ability to turn into living beings like birds and fish, which allows for a greater understanding of the different songs sung by all creatures.

The charming storytelling is paired with two sides of dancing instruction. Ballerina Konora demonstrates a movement in image, and a written description not only explains the motion but also how it relates to the current moment in the story. Konora’s careful instructions are perfect for both visual and auditory learners, as the reader can easily walk their children through the steps.

Sora’s transformations lead to a wonderful gain in confidence that is sure to be mirrored by those who dance along with the story.

With a strong message of celebrating oneself, being open to learning new skills, and finding a place of belonging, Sora Searches for a Song is a book you will read again and again. A worthwhile installment of the wide collection of books from Once Upon a Dance.

—Chanticleer Reviews