Giraffes Can't Dance is a charming children's book written by Giles Andreae and illustrated in cartoons and beautiful scenes by Guy Parker-Rees. The story follows Gerald the giraffe, who is very keen to dance but unable to do so because he doesn't understand the steps and moves normally used by the other animals. Every night the animals assemble together to dance, but Gerald stands apart from the crowd, embarrassed and ashamed of himself. After many failed attempts, Gerald meets an unusual creature known as the Wise Old Owl and together they help him learn how to dance.
Chapter 1 introduces us to Gerald, the giraffe, as he attempts to join in the animals’ weekly dance. The other animals make fun of him for his awkward moves and poor technique, which causes Gerald to burst out in tears and run away. This chapter teaches children the importance of being kind to others and accepting that everybody is different.
In Chapter 2, Gerald meets the wizened old owl, who encourages him to focus on finding music within himself rather than follow the moves of others. Gerald eventually finds a bit of courage and is soon moving his body to the rhythm of a strange internal song.
Chapter 3 explores how Gerald continues to build on his newfound love of free-form movement. Despite being ridiculed for his “strange” dance moves, Gerald begins to gain self-confidence and finds joy in his own movements. He’s soon brave enough to join in the with the group, although he still feels somewhat out of place amongst the other animals.
In Chapter 4, Gerald finally manages to be accepted into the animal dance by playing an unconventional game of music bingo. This game involves the animals trying to guess the music that Gerald is dancing to. After all his hard work and effort, Gerald is finally able to join in and have fun with the animal dance.
The book reaches a happy conclusion in Chapter 5. When it’s time for the animals to select their lead dancer, everyone unanimously picks Gerald - a testament to his newfound confidence and unique dancing style.
Giraffes Can't Dance teaches children the value of being true to yourself and accepting individuality in others. Aside from teaching lessons in acceptance and trying new things, the story also encourages children to explore different types of music and appreciate the power of music as a source of joy and camaraderie.
