Tammy the Troll: A Dance in the forest Ages 3+

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Tammy the Troll lives at the edge of a far away forest, and a group of intrepid children is determined to visit her. Together, the children ensure they have the proper equipment and tools to make the journey, and they set off across the landscape to reach Tammy’s home. Several obstacles stand in the way of the companions as they travel, but ingenuity and problem-solving skills help them overcome each challenge as they get closer to their goal. This addition to the Dance-it-out Creative Movement series by Once Upon a Dance is unique in that it speaks most clearly to dance teachers instead of directly to the dancer. 

Computer rendered illustrations are the primary focus of each page, and they depict elementary school-aged youth in frequent movement and motion. Additionally, their cartoon-like qualities and rich hues draw the eye, and young readers will be particularly inspired by the vibrant characters on each page. 

Along the bottom of each spread are the verbal queues and suggestions that dance and physical education teachers can use to present the story in their own classrooms. Anyone familiar with We’re Going on a Bear Huntwill recognize the similar qualities and design found in this book, which is an excellent challenge for young people who have mastered the more common Bear Hunt themselves. At the end of the book, readers will find a list of options for discussion as well as extensions both for older readers and for teachers who have more time to spend with their students. 

This is a fantastic addition to the Once Upon a Dance collection, and it is a story that will easily inspire creative expression and physical movement in a fun and memorable way. It is a highly recommended addition to classrooms that promote creative motion in a collaborative group setting.

—Mary Lanni, Independent Librarian Reviewer

Five friends are preparing to embark on an adventure in search of Tammy the Troll, a unique little creature with spiky purple hair and a diamond in her belly button. They must gather supplies before they leave to find Tammy's home, a hollowed-out tree at the edge of the forest. As the kids pack, Konora (a real-life dancer) gets readers up and has them stretching and squatting. 

As we follow the kids on their journey, Konora encourages children to mimic her movements. When the fictional characters traverse over tree roots, up the side of the mountain, or walk across branches, Konora is there giving guidance on moves that children at home can do so they feel part of the adventure. Jumping. Spinning. Movement with scarves. Movement without. Kids will be in constant motion and love every minute of it. 

The band of friends brave heights, mice, sticky spiderwebs, and spiders on their grand forest adventure. Their perseverance paid off; they found Tammy the troll. And, let me say, her hair was fabulous! But their adventure doesn't cease after they give Tammy her special gift. No, they must still navigate the waters before leading Tammy to their home. 

The fictional children were tuckered out from their long day and needed a nap. I assume many real-life children will also crave a rest, especially if they follow along with Konora's very detailed and fun movements. 

After the story's conclusion, there are optional extension activities, such as creating a friendship dance, practicing a bridge pose, and discussing dance/ballet stories like Swan Lake. 

Exercise is vital to everyone's health. Tammy the Troll: A Dance in the Forest by Once Upon a Dance offers the chance to burn off some energy and stretch your muscles while always enjoying a fun story. 

This interactive storybook is perfect for preschoolers and kindergartners.

This is a wonderful and very creative dance adventure that children will love participating in (regardless of whether or not they take dance lessons; it's for everyone!). It teaches them creative movement and how to follow simple instructions. This is a great way to spark children's imaginations. You can even improvise along the way however you'd like.

The story teaches children the importance of kindness, friendship, and helping each other out. I love the adorable and animated characters in the story, and you will too! This would make the perfect gift for your little dancer to enjoy. It's a perfect addition to any dance studio, library, or gift shop as well.

It was especially enjoyable for me to read because I can relate to the shy dance character; in fact, I wrote my own children's book about that! Highly recommended. 

— Lindsay DeRollo on Goodreads