Here are 100 books that Can You Dance Like a Peacock? fans have personally recommended if you like Can You Dance Like a Peacock?. Book DNA is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

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Book cover of How Do You Dance?

Connie Bergstein Dow Author Of Tap and Rap, Move and Groove

From my list on inspire your little ones to imagine and have fun.

Why am I passionate about this?

Dance has always been an important part of my life. I specialized in dance in college (Denison University) and graduate school (MFA, University of Michigan) and danced professionally for twelve years. As a dance educator, I’ve taught in colleges, conservatories, schools, and community centers, teaching toddlers, senior adults, and every age in between. I’ve authored two books for teachers, three picture books, articles in journals, and verses for children’s magazines. I share my passion for dance by writing and teaching, and visiting schools, libraries, and book festivals. I believe that every child should have the opportunity to participate in the arts; they are essential and transformational forces in our lives.

Connie's book list on inspire your little ones to imagine and have fun

Connie Bergstein Dow Why Connie loves this book

I love the variety of movement words in this book that offer children so many ideas about how to dance and what to dance about. It encourages children to dance however they want and offers playful prompts like emotions (dance because you’re happy or sad), different body parts (dance with your face or your fingers), and different places (dance at the bus stop!).

This book has colorful and fun illustrations by the author to enhance the lively movement ideas.

By Thyra Heder ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked How Do You Dance? as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

A playful picture book that urges readers to bop, bounce, and shake from the author of Fraidyzoo

There are so many ways to dance! You can jiggle or wiggle or stomp. You can bop or bounce or go completely nuts. You can dance at the market or the bus stop, with your fingers or your face. You can dance because you're happy or even because you're sad.
But, what's the best way to dance?
Exactly how you want to!
In How Do You Dance?, author-illustrator Thyra Heder explores dance in all of its creativity, humor, and-most of all-joy, in a…


If you love Can You Dance Like a Peacock?...

Book cover of The Real Boys of the Civil War

The Real Boys of the Civil War by J. Arthur Moore,

The Real Boys of the Civil War is a research about the real boys who served during the war, opening with a historiography research paper about their history along with its 7-page source document. It then evolves into a series of collections of their stories by topic, concluding with a…

Book cover of Let's Dance!

Connie Bergstein Dow Author Of Tap and Rap, Move and Groove

From my list on inspire your little ones to imagine and have fun.

Why am I passionate about this?

Dance has always been an important part of my life. I specialized in dance in college (Denison University) and graduate school (MFA, University of Michigan) and danced professionally for twelve years. As a dance educator, I’ve taught in colleges, conservatories, schools, and community centers, teaching toddlers, senior adults, and every age in between. I’ve authored two books for teachers, three picture books, articles in journals, and verses for children’s magazines. I share my passion for dance by writing and teaching, and visiting schools, libraries, and book festivals. I believe that every child should have the opportunity to participate in the arts; they are essential and transformational forces in our lives.

Connie's book list on inspire your little ones to imagine and have fun

Connie Bergstein Dow Why Connie loves this book

This colorful picture book, with whimsical illustrations by Maine Diaz, takes the reader on a journey through ten different kinds of dance from around the world. There are pictures of a widely diverse cast performing the dances, from Kuku to cha cha to disco to break dancing.

In addition, movement words like "glide," "dip," and "tap" will inspire children to dance along with the fun and playful words and illustrations.

By Valerie Bolling , Maine Diaz (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Let's Dance! as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 3, 4, 5, and 6.

What is this book about?

This rhythmic showcase of dances from all over the world features children of diverse backgrounds and abilities tapping, spinning, and boogying away!

Tap, twirl, twist, spin! With musical, rhyming text, author Valerie Bolling shines a spotlight on dances from across the globe, while energetic art from Maine Diaz shows off all the moves and the diverse people who do them. From the cha cha of Cuba to the stepping of Ireland, kids will want to leap, dip, and zip along with the dances on the page!


Book cover of Danika's Dancing Day: A Dance-It-Out Creative Movement Story for Young Movers

Connie Bergstein Dow Author Of Tap and Rap, Move and Groove

From my list on inspire your little ones to imagine and have fun.

Why am I passionate about this?

Dance has always been an important part of my life. I specialized in dance in college (Denison University) and graduate school (MFA, University of Michigan) and danced professionally for twelve years. As a dance educator, I’ve taught in colleges, conservatories, schools, and community centers, teaching toddlers, senior adults, and every age in between. I’ve authored two books for teachers, three picture books, articles in journals, and verses for children’s magazines. I share my passion for dance by writing and teaching, and visiting schools, libraries, and book festivals. I believe that every child should have the opportunity to participate in the arts; they are essential and transformational forces in our lives.

Connie's book list on inspire your little ones to imagine and have fun

Connie Bergstein Dow Why Connie loves this book

This picture book is one of twenty in the Dance-It-Out Movement Story series. Each picture book tells a delightful story that serves as a catalyst for children to “dance it out,” with colorful and playful illustrations by Sudipta Steve Dasgupta.

This one is the story of Danika, who loves ballet and incorporates it into her life in many fun and creative ways. The book has instructions and photos to inspire children to dance along with the story. 

By Once Upon A Dance , Sudipta Steve Dasgupta (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Danika's Dancing Day as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 5, 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

Two Ballerinas dance on the pages of this charming story of ballet passion.

"Overflowing with enthusiasm for ballet, this book is a celebration of all those who live with dance in their souls. Effervescent images of both Danika and Ballerina Konora will inspire children to mirror their movements both while reading the story and after it ends". (—Mary Lanni, Librarian Reviewer)

Danika loves ballet. She translates each ordinary aspect of her life into a remarkable dance performance. Ballerina Konora (a professional ballerina) joins the fun with how-to instructions and photos for kids who want to dance along with Danika, Penelope…


If you love Rekha Rajan...

Book cover of The Yesterday Dress

The Yesterday Dress by Teena Raffa-Mulligan,

Everyone in Angelina's big family has a story to tell.

The Yesterday Dress is a story for seven to nine-year olds about family connections and how learning about the past gives us a stronger sense of where we come from, who we are and how we fit into our world.…

Book cover of The Dancing Light

Connie Bergstein Dow Author Of Tap and Rap, Move and Groove

From my list on inspire your little ones to imagine and have fun.

Why am I passionate about this?

Dance has always been an important part of my life. I specialized in dance in college (Denison University) and graduate school (MFA, University of Michigan) and danced professionally for twelve years. As a dance educator, I’ve taught in colleges, conservatories, schools, and community centers, teaching toddlers, senior adults, and every age in between. I’ve authored two books for teachers, three picture books, articles in journals, and verses for children’s magazines. I share my passion for dance by writing and teaching, and visiting schools, libraries, and book festivals. I believe that every child should have the opportunity to participate in the arts; they are essential and transformational forces in our lives.

Connie's book list on inspire your little ones to imagine and have fun

Connie Bergstein Dow Why Connie loves this book

This book, written by a lifelong dance educator, is the second in a planned series that helps children learn about science and nature through movement. The creative movement prompts come directly from images of light, both natural and man-made.

The book is filled with ideas to encourage children to learn about the nature of light, darkness, reflection, and refraction, and to use these images to inspire creativity and learning. Beautiful illustrations by the author are superimposed with photographs of young children dancing about the different aspects of light.

By Karen Diaz Ensanian ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Dancing Light as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

The Dancing Light is the second in a series of books by dance educator Karen Diaz Ensanian, created to facilitate dance making with young children. The book exposes them to beautiful visual art, view photos of young dancers demonstrating science concepts through their movement, and hear poetic verse and action words that help them illustrate the nature of LIGHT. By embodying this information, the student makes deep connections in their body, mind, to the world, and to the nature of light. This is an opportunity to learn by way of movement. Internalizing the information and imagery, students will gain a…


Book cover of Wildlife Ranger Action Guide: Track, Spot & Provide Healthy Habitat for Creatures Close to Home

Patricia Newman Author Of Planet Ocean: Why We All Need a Healthy Ocean

From my list on nature to WOW! kids and teens.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’m a Sibert Honor author and write books for kids and teens about nature. Part biography, part science adventure, my books introduce readers to real scientists and the unexpected twists and turns of their discoveries. The more I research the more I discover hidden connections to our natural world that humble me and fill me with gratitude. I do my best to share these connections with readers in an accurate, truthful way to help them find their own “ah-ha” moments in life. I want them to say, “I can do this, too!”

Patricia's book list on nature to WOW! kids and teens

Patricia Newman Why Patricia loves this book

This book challenges kids to get outside and observe the wildlife in their own communities—the BEST way to connect to nature. Written as a field guide, this book is meant to be shoved in a backpack and consulted on the trail. Mary Kay Carson shows kids how to record observations in a nature journal and includes many projects with materials found around the house. Before you know it, your kids will be local wildlife experts. When kids understand nature, they care about it, and when they care, they protect it. 

Perfect for ages 6-12.

By Mary Kay Carson ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Wildlife Ranger Action Guide as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Kids can make the world better for wild animals, starting right in their own backyards! With hands-on activities, from a Wildlife Spotting Fort to a Sand Print Track Trap, along with habitat projects and wildlife field guides, this book teaches young nature observers how identify which animals live nearby. DIY projects such as making a Frog Pond out of a kiddie pool, planting a pollinator garden for bees, painting a bat house, and building a lodge for lizards help kids create a welcome haven for animal friends. Throughout the book, habitat maps and fun facts profile 84 North American wildlife…


Book cover of Tuck Me In!

Abi Cushman Author Of Animals Go Vroom!

From my list on interactive stories for toddlers.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am the author-illustrator of funny picture books for kids, including the interactive book, Animals Go Vroom!. As an illustrator, I revel in creating jokes and storylines in the pictures that kids can follow along with by themselves. And as a mother of two small children myself, I know first-hand the magical experience of reading books with toddlers that keep them guessing and giggling along the way.

Abi's book list on interactive stories for toddlers

Abi Cushman Why Abi loves this book

In this interactive picture book, every other page is cut to look like a blanket. My kids love tucking in each animal by turning the page. This simple, gentle bedtime book also features repeated lines, so kids can join in the reading. “Who else needs to be tucked in?” / “I do!” It’s a wonderful way to get toddlers engaged in the story (but not in a rambunctious way) before settling into bed. 

By Dean Hacohen , Sherry Scharschmidt (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Tuck Me In! as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Time for bed everyone! Turn the page and tuck all of the baby animals into their cosy beds.

The stars are out. The moon is rising. All the baby animals, from peacocks to pigs to zebras, are ready for bed. Will you tuck them in and say goodnight? Turn the pages and the big blanket flaps will cover each little creature up to its chin. This simple but endlessly satisfying novelty, with its array of baby animals, bold patterns, and brilliant colours, is sure to be the book of choice for little ones everywhere, night after night.


If you love Can You Dance Like a Peacock?...

Book cover of The Stormy Night

The Stormy Night by MJ Howson,

The Stormy Night is the first in a series of nine children's books for ages 8-12. The stories follow two dogs–a senior, disabled dog and a newly adopted puppy–as they learn to become friends and family.

The Adventures of Lucky and Mr. Pickle series are chapter books, not picture books.…

Book cover of Sunrise Dance

Brooke Hartman Author Of Dream Flights on Arctic Nights

From my list on quick rhyming picture books with animals.

Why am I passionate about this?

As a mom of young kids who love animals, I know firsthand the benefit of finding fun books that are also easy to read, fun to look at, and short enough not to make you flinch when your kids pull them off the shelves during those later bedtime nights.

Brooke's book list on quick rhyming picture books with animals

Brooke Hartman Why Brooke loves this book

A companion book to Moonlight Prance, this interactive lift-the-flap book will entertain young readers as they read along during a sunrise dance in a meadow, and all the animals that come and join the fun. Kids will love making the animals dance along by moving the flaps, plus it’s short enough for when you need that super quick read before a late bedtime.

By Serena Gingold Allen , Teagan White (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Sunrise Dance as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Make salmon splash and bear cubs bustle with each push of a durable novelty element in this sweet and interactive morning read-aloud.

When you wake up in the morning, playful animals are starting their day! Push and pull the sturdy tabs to make dragonflies dance and bear cubs bustle in this sweet, interactive tale of morning-time fun.

A charming and interactive bedtime read-aloud, young children will delight in moving the durable novelty elements, making the illustrations transform through their efforts.

FOR FANS OF BARNYARD DANCE!: With rollicking rhyme and dancing animals, this book is perfect for anyone who loves Sandra…


Book cover of We All Play

Danica Novgorodoff Author Of Alexander von Humboldt: Explorer, Naturalist & Environmental Pioneer

From my list on playing in nature.

Why am I passionate about this?

When I was growing up, my favorite books were about kids getting lost in the wilderness. Now, as an artist and writer, I love to create stories about people’s connection to land and the plants and animals that inhabit natural spaces. The inspiration for my picture book biography, Alexander von Humboldt: Explorer, Naturalist & Environmental Pioneer, came after hiking many of the volcanoes that Humboldt had climbed some 200 years earlier in South America. Besides hiking, I occupy myself with drawing and watercolor painting, climate activism, and looking at bugs and rocks with my daughters. I’ve published four graphic novels, two picture books, and a cookbook about rice.

Danica's book list on playing in nature

Danica Novgorodoff Why Danica loves this book

So simple and yet so poetic (both visually and lyrically), We All Play is a catalog of human and more-than-human animals delighting in movement and sound in the outdoors.

This book is great for a younger (baby and toddler) readership, and highlights our connection with all living beings. It also peppers in some Cree language words, which are fun to explore. I love the adorable drawings of animals and children that Flett created with the ochres and umbers of her earthy palette. 

By Julie Flett ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked We All Play as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A BEST CHILDREN'S BOOK OF THE YEAR: New York Times, Washington Post, New York Public Library, Kirkus Reviews, Globe and Mail, Horn Book, and Boston Globe

STARRED Reviews in Kirkus, Publisher's Weekly, The Horn Book, School Library Journal

From Julie Flett, the beloved author and illustrator of Birdsong, comes a joyous new book about playtime for babies, toddlers, and kids up to age 7.

Animals and kids love to play! This wonderful book celebrates playtime and the connection between children and the natural world. Beautiful illustrations show:

birds who chase and chirp!
bears who wiggle and wobble!
whales who swim…


Book cover of My Friends

Sanae Ishida Author Of Little Kunoichi, The Ninja Girl

From my list on Japan.

Why am I passionate about this?

My parents were both born and raised in Japan but met in New York and eventually settled in Los Angeles, where I grew up. My first language was Japanese and as a nisei (second generation), I am deeply steeped in my Asian heritage. I am continually inspired by the art and storytelling that originates from Japanese culture and love to incorporate them into my own work.

Sanae's book list on Japan

Sanae Ishida Why Sanae loves this book

All the books I’m drawn to have striking and beautiful illustrations and this one is no exception. I love the joyful and varied way that friendship is expressed in this board book. I purchased the book when my daughter was still in preschool (she’s in high school now), and the message of finding camaraderie in as many places as possible still resonates deeply.

By Taro Gomi ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked My Friends as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

A little girl learns to walk, climb, and study the earth from her friends, most of whom are animals.


If you love Rekha Rajan...

Book cover of Floretta

Floretta by Joan Budilovsky,

Floretta- the story of an old woman who discovers life beautifully anew thru the helping hands of a child. The chakra colors of dawn and twilight are woven through the pages as the cycle of life is magically composed. The subject of “heaven,” has the potential to open discussions with…

Book cover of Why a Son Needs a Mom

Avery Smart Author Of Say Please, Ellie: Learning How To Say The Magic Word

From my list on mix fun stories with important lessons.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve been passionate about teaching kindness and good manners since becoming a parent. Raising three energetic kids has shown me firsthand how small lessons in empathy and respect can shape their world. At first, I created fun stories to help my children understand the power of simple words like "please" and "thank you." Now, as a children’s book author, I bring those lessons to life through storytelling, making manners and values fun and memorable. The books on this list have inspired me in my journey, and I hope they bring the same joy and guidance to you and your little ones!

Avery's book list on mix fun stories with important lessons

Avery Smart Why Avery loves this book

I love this one because it beautifully illustrates the unbreakable bond between a mother and her son. Every page is filled with heartfelt reminders of the little moments that shape a lifetime, making me reflect on the special role a mother plays in guiding, supporting, and loving her child unconditionally.

What makes this book truly special to me is the way it captures both the simple joys and the deep, meaningful lessons that mothers pass on. The touching words and warm illustrations make it a book I want to share with families again and again. It’s a reminder of the love, wisdom, and strength that mothers give so freely, and it left me feeling both grateful and nostalgic.

By Gregory Lang , Susanna Leonard Hill , Gail Yerrill (illustrator)

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Why a Son Needs a Mom as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Based on Gregory Lang's New York Times bestselling original series! The perfect Mother's Day gift, birthday present for mom, or sweet keepsake to show why Mom is so special!
A touching picture book showcasing all the ways a mother will help her son grow, this is the gift for every mom and little boy to celebrate their special bond. Featuring charming animal illustrations and heartwarming rhymes about the loving moments mothers and sons share, Why a Son Needs a Mom is the perfect story to connect mother and son together.
From the moment that I saw your beautiful face,
Held…


Book cover of How Do You Dance?
Book cover of Let's Dance!
Book cover of Danika's Dancing Day: A Dance-It-Out Creative Movement Story for Young Movers

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