The Twirly Wiggly Dance
Farrah Riaz and Navya Raju
Oxford Children’s Books

Little Intisar is super excited to be invited to her Auntie Mahira’s wedding and thrilled to be asked to perform in the big group dance, the Walima, at the end of the festivities..As she practises the moves, Intisar discovers one that’s particularly tricky and she just cannot get it right. Instead she invents her own move instead – her twirly wiggly one is much more fun.
On the eve of the first party – the Mehndi, Intisar is allowed to have henna put on her hands and while it dries she watches her older cousin, Isla, practise the dance and then later, they practise together. However, when it comes to the tricky part, Intisar finds herself getting in a tangle once more so she does her own twirly wiggly dance instead. Isla is far from impressed at her efforts telling her young cousin that she’ll disappoint Auntie Mahira.

This leaves Intisar doubting her ability to participate despite her big brother Taj’s encouragement.
What will happen on the big day? Will Intisar do the group dance the same way as other guests

or will she use her own moves and if so, what will the reaction be?

This charming story celebrates individuality and the importance of being able to embrace your uniqueness. Little Intisar is a delightful character that any child should be able to relate to, whether or not they are familiar with South Asian weddings, particularly as celebrated by Muslim families.
For those who aren’t, both Navya Raju’s vibrant, energetic illustrations and the two pages after the story explaining the various elements will enhance their enjoyment of this lovely tale.