The Day Dancer Flew

  • Illustrated By: Brittany Lane
  • Pages:32
  • Publisher:Orca Book Publishers
  • Themes:horses, natural disasters, animal rescue, floods, based on a true story
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  • Available:05/14/2024
  • Lexile:550L
  • Fountas & Pinnell Text Level Gradient:N
Hardcover
9781459837393
$21.95
EPUB
9781459837416 LICENSE OPTIONS
$17.99

In this beautiful picture book inspired by real events, a young girl works to rescue her horse after a devastating flood.

Dancer is a gentle and loving horse. He got his name because of how he moves his hooves—happily, like he's dancing. Every day when the girl rides on his back, it feels like she is flying—until the rain descends and won't let up. Everything floods and the girl and her family flee...leaving Dancer behind. But while sheltering at the community center, the girl can't stop worrying about Dancer. She knows there must be a way to save him too. With the help of an agriculture officer, a horse expert and a helicopter pilot, a plan comes together to save the stranded horse.

Inspired by real events during the flooding near Spences Bridge, British Columbia, in 2021, this gorgeously illustrated book tells the tale of a girl's love for her horse and the power of a community coming together to help humans (and animals) during a natural disaster.

“Readers will be moved by how the protagonist’s flights of fancy turn into concrete solutions. The story is a much-needed reminder about the importance of community; it also offers a crucial takeaway: Even in the face of natural disaster and trauma, we must never stop attempting the seemingly impossible…A tremendous example of collective efforts in the wake of disaster.”

– Kirkus Reviews

“There is a beautiful flow and rhythm to [Stone’s] words, making The Day Dancer Flew ideal for reading aloud...[and] the illustrations by Brittany Lane are stunning, soft, and ethereal...Being able to place the story anywhere makes it easier for readers to connect to the idea that there are always helpers, and that some people will do selfless things to help others. Highly Recommended.”

– CM: Canadian Review of Materials
“This beautifully illustrated story will inspire hope and positivity in tricky situations.”
– Kelly Kennedy, owner of Sageview Rescue Center in Kamloops, BC, and the inspiration for the character of Ms. K.

“Any child who loves animals will be captivated by this tale showcasing the love between a girl and her horse. Children will be reminded to have hope and look to their community for support in tough times.”

– Children's Literature Comprehensive Database (CLCD)

“Awe-inspiring [with] a perfect ending!”

– Sal's Fiction Addiction