Flirty Dancing
#1 in Flirty Dancing Series
on Goodreads (894)
What’s inside...
Bea Hogg is shy but fiery inside. When national dance competition Starwars comes to her school looking for talent, she wants to sign up. It's just a shame her best friend agreed to enter with school super-cow Pearl Harris. Bea will fight back! But when school hottie, Ollie Matthews, who also happens to be Pearl’s boyfriend, decides to enter the competition with Bea, she will have more than a fight on her hands.
This warm, nuanced, hilarious story about friendship, fortitude . . . and dancing is impossible not to fall in love with. Jenny’s voice is fresh and convincing, and she handles both darker and lighter elements of the story with equal panache.
Why read this book
- Captivating coming-of-age story, perfect for tweens.
- Encourages self-expression and confidence through dance.
- Addresses teenage challenges with humor and sensitivity.
- Strengthens empathy and social relationships.
Character compass
Bea Hogg
Ollie Matthews
Gran
Kat
Discussion points
How do you think Bea felt when she was asked to participate in the dance show, and why?
What do you think Bea learned about herself by the end of 'Flirty Dancing'?
How did Bea’s relationships with her friends and family change throughout the story?
Can you relate to any of the challenges Bea faced? What would you have done differently?
What does this story teach us about the importance of being true to oneself?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start by sharing your own thoughts and feelings about the book to create a comfortable space for open discussion. Ask your child to describe their favorite part of the book or any character they felt connected to, and why. Encourage them to think about how the characters’ experiences can be applied to their own life. Use the questions to guide a deeper exploration of the book’s themes, such as self-confidence, friendship, and self-discovery. Celebrate their responses to show that their opinions are valued andimportant.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Self-confidence and self-expression
Explanation: Bea, the protagonist, learns to embrace her quirky personality and unique dancing style despite peer pressure and bullying.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of self-acceptance and expressing themselves confidently, which can help them navigate social situations and develop their individuality.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship and support
Explanation: Throughout the novel, Bea's friends encourage her and help her prepare for a dance competition, showing the value of supportive relationships.
Real-World Application: This teaches children to appreciate and nurture friendships, understanding that true friends will support and uplift them during challenging times.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of challenges
Explanation: Bea faces numerous obstacles, from initial lack of dancing skills to dealing with mean comments from peers, but she perseveres and grows stronger.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to remain resilient and persistent when facing their own challenges, whether academic, social, or personal.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: As Bea interacts with different classmates, including those who initially bully her, she learns to understand their perspectives and motivations.
Real-World Application: This can help children develop empathy, promoting a more inclusive and compassionate approach to differences among peers.
Example Lesson: Courage to try new things
Explanation: Bea steps out of her comfort zone to join a dance competition, discovering new talents and interests.
Real-World Application: Encouraging children to explore new activities and hobbies, which can lead to discovering passions and enhancing their skills.