Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae

Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae promotes themes of self-acceptance, confidence, self-reflection, perseverance and self-esteem.

Gerald the giraffe is tall, awkward and clumsy. He wants to dance but lacks self-confidence in his abilities. When he attempts to join in the annual Jungle Dance, the other animals laugh at him because giraffes can’t dance. He creeps off the dance floor feeling useless and dejected.

 

Unknown to Gerald, a cricket had been watching and gave the giraffe some guidance. “Sometimes when you’re different, you just need a different song.” The advice inspires Gerald to find the rhythm in him and is ecstatic that he can actually dance.

 

The other animals gather to watch the giraffe move, amazed at his dancing ability. When they ask how he can dance so well, Gerald tells them everyone can dance when they find music that they love.