The Bear Who Wanted to Dance, by Stephanie Stansbie (Author), Wendy J Warren (Illustrator).  Format: Picture Book
 
Meet Rita, a big bear with an even bigger dream! Rita is a talented dancer - fuelled by a passion for ballet. And she's top of her class. But when she studies her ballet magazines, and compares herself to her friends, she realises - she's the wrong shape! Can Rita find her inner power and confidence in her beautiful big-bear body? A stunningly illustrated, lyrical take on body positivity and representation from a debut illustrator. A heartwarming picture book about chasing your dreams, celebrating your differences and twirling to your own rhythm.
 
Perfect for sharing with fans of Brontorina by James Howe and Randy Cecil, Giraffes Can't Dance by Giles Andreae and Guy Parker-Rees, and Julian Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love. This uplifting story will strike a chord with any child who has ever felt out of place or like they didn't quite fit the mould.