
Reach for this book when you want to bridge the generational divide with rhythm, joy, and a touch of magic. It is perfect for families dealing with a strict household dynamic where children might feel their true passions are not being fully seen by their parents. This vibrant retelling of the Twelve Dancing Princesses replaces the traditional castle with a bustling Harlem brownstone and the princesses with twelve energetic brothers. At its heart, the story explores the tension between a disciplined father (a Reverend) and his sons who are sneaking out to dance the night away. Through the help of a clever housekeeper and a bit of magical intervention, the family learns that discipline and creative expression can coexist. It is a soulful, high energy read-aloud for children ages 4 to 8 that celebrates African American culture, the bond of brotherhood, and the power of finding common ground through music.
The religious context (the father is a Reverend) is present but serves more as a backdrop for his strictness rather than a heavy theological lesson. The resolution is hopeful and celebratory.
A child who loves to move but perhaps feels they have to hide their silly or creative side around adults. It is also wonderful for children in large families who enjoy stories about sibling camaraderie.
Read this cold, but be prepared to perform. The text is highly rhythmic and begs for a theatrical delivery. A parent might reach for this after a day of feeling like the 'enforcer' of rules, realizing they have forgotten how to play or connect with their child's interests.
Younger children will focus on the mystery of the shoes and the colorful, kinetic illustrations. Older children (7 to 8) will better grasp the subtext of the father's strictness and the 'cool' factor of the Harlem setting.
Unlike the original European fairy tale, this version replaces the 'reward' of marriage with the reward of familial understanding and cultural celebration, all set against the rich, rhythmic backdrop of Harlem. """
Reverend Knight is a no nonsense single father in Harlem who is baffled by a recurring mystery: every morning, his twelve sons have holes in the soles of their shoes. Despite his strict rules and watchful eye, the boys seem to be exhausted. He hires Sunday, a nanny/housekeeper, who uses a bit of magic (and a lot of wit) to follow the brothers to a secret, underground dance club. The revelation of their secret talent eventually leads to a joyful family reconciliation where the father embraces his sons' passion for dance.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review