Princess Naomi Helps a Unicorn: A Dance-It-Out Creative Movement Story for Young Movers

by Once Upon a Dance, Ethan Roffler (Illustrator)

Unicorns and Horses and Snakes, oh my!

Interactive movement wrapped up in a charming story of sibling angst, anger management, compassion, and triumph. Grown-ups sit; kiddos move and practice dance fundamentals.

This is the fourth of the Dance-It-Out stories, pandemic creations by an award-winning dance teacher and her Ballerina daughter.

Fed up with her annoying sister, Naomi storms out of the castle, only to discover a unicorn in need of help. With a sense of purpose, she quickly forgets her anger.
Ballerina Konora is featured on each page as optional movement mentor to help readers connect with movement.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens

Paperback

Published November 1, 2021

About the author

Terrel is a dance educator and storyteller who believes in the transformative power of movement. Through her passion project, Once Upon a Dance, she’s published 42 interactive children’s books that weave whimsical stories with joyful movement.

With her daughter—a former Pacific Northwest Ballet Professional Division student—as the featured ballerina, Terrel brings movement into storytime, encouraging creativity, confidence, and self-expression in young readers.

Each book invites kids to stretch, twirl, leap, and imagine alongside positive characters—from dancing cats to ballerina zombies. Whether reading with a caregiver or moving along in the classroom, children are gently guided to explore feelings, movement, and connection through play.

Once Upon a Dance was named a Top 10 Author by the Outstanding Creator Awards for three consecutive years (2022–2024). The books have earned over 60 book awards—including 14 first-place honors, more than 3,000 five-star reviews, a BEST IN SHOW, and a coveted Kirkus Reviews Starred Review.

Discover the collection at www.OnceUponADance.com or follow their journey on social media.

Reviews

[Debbie · Rating 2 out of 5]

Couldn't even see the print it was so small, even I had cataracts surgery and still couldn't see the print you need to make sure people who are on a Kindle tablet to make sure we can read it.

[Brittiny Harrand · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful story for children. It shows how our emotions show and what we do in response. I loved how it related actual ballet moves to the story showing we don’t even need words to tell a story. There is more than one way to display our feelings. My daughters love the princess story and really enjoyed the unicorn part, pointing and squealing at the pictures. I won this book in a giveaway but this is my honest review. We love books and enjoy reading new stories.

[Kailey (Luminous Libro) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Princess Naomi is fed up with everything, so she goes galloping on her horse. They find a unicorn who needs help. The unicorn leads them to a mysterious cave opening, and only Naomi is small enough to fit inside and find what the unicorn needs.

I loved this cute story! Naomi is so brave and smart to help the unicorn, and the whole fairy tale setting is so fun!

Each page includes dance moves and steps that mimic what is happening in the story, so that you can act out the story as you read. Most of the photos showing the dance steps are clear, but I was a little confused about what some of the movements were supposed to look like. I guess you could just make it up, or interpret the photos to be whatever movement you wanted. I would probably understand it better if I knew anything about ballet or dance.

I loved the cute illustrations! The soft art style is so beautiful, and the colors are bright. The designs for the characters are really adorable and sweet. I like the fuzzy kind of art.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.

[Elizabeth Sanders · Rating 4 out of 5]

princess Naomi helps a unicorn

I love that this book teaches you dance steps. The unicorn is awesome to I loved the unicorn. I want my grand kids to read it one day

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

In a castle on a hill, a king and queen live with their two lovely daughters. Princesses Naomi and Miranda are usually quite close, but like any siblings, they have their fair share of conflicts. One day, Princess Naomi becomes so angry at her sister that she leaves the castle for the sanctuary of the stables and her beloved horse, En Tournant. As they ride around the nearby countryside, Princess Naomi discovers another creature in need and she watches as this new sense of purpose helps her anger melt away.

This third book in the Dance-it-Out series by Once Upon a Dance features a new illustrator and more delightful characters to add to the canon. Designed in a similar way to the other stories, this book has three distinct components that can work together or independently to recount the tale. On the left side of each page is the illustration, depicting the action in the story. Opposite that, the page is divided in two: the top half features the narrative and the bottom half introduces corresponding movements and photographs to guide readers physically through the story.

Written for a young elementary school-aged audience, this story focuses primarily on identifying feelings and emotions and managing them in a healthy way. Accessible text and plot keep the book engaging while imparting its overarching message. A selection of French words common in ballet are immediately translated within the book instead of in a glossary at the end. At the beginning, readers find a message from Ballerina Konora inviting them to participate no matter their age or gender, as ballet is suitable for everybody.

The illustrations are a lovely, emotion-filled addition to this story. Created with pencil lines and watercolor, warm hues pair with texture to create dynamic visuals. Soft and inviting, these images enhance the varying sentiments included in the narrative.

Cheerful and heartwarming, this movement adventure will inspire creative expression through imagination. As readers replicate the behaviors in the story, they will gain a greater understanding of human emotions and how to express them through both words and actions. This enjoyable story is a valuable addition to young readers’ libraries as they grow and mature into healthy and well-balanced youth.

I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.

[BookTrib.com]

Whether your little one dreams of being a ballet dancer, needs help with physical coordination, or simply needs to step away from the screen and move more, PRINCESS NAOMI HELPS A UNICORN and the other books in the “Dance-It-Out” series fit the bill — with engaging and fantastical stories to boot.

Read our full review here:
https://booktrib.com/2021/07/12/princ...

[Shauntrell Leaks · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free digital copy of Princess Naomi Helps a Unicorn. I really enjoyed it. I loved how the opportunities for physical activity were included in the reading of the story. This provides younger students with the ability to listen actively. The book let’s them hear the words, see the illustrations and move their bodies. That’s a win-win-win situation 😁!

[Becky · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Goodreads for the free copy. My six year old daughters loved this story! Unicorns and dancing, what more do you need!! As far as the story, sibling conflicts was a topic they could relate to easily. They really enjoyed the story and then the dance/movement breaks. It was a great story before bed to get their sillies out. Thanks again.

[Lulu Bruns · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for an honest opinion. My 4 year old niece and I have read and re read this book. She loved the artwork and dancing...such a cute story.

[Tina Reitz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super cute to get your little one moving with pictures of dance moves and an enchanting story.

[Renee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I won this on goodreads. It was a cute story to read to the kids I babysit for. They loved the story about the unicorn and tried to do the movements but the print is to small to read on a kindle. Wish it was bigger or maybe on a page by itself. They loved it when the unicorn went to the water and tried to give direction.

[Marjorie Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book. My granddaughter and her friends had a blast! What a cool idea.

[Zury Z · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful book by the lovely once upon a dance creators. This beautifully drawn picture book is sure to capture your childs attention. it's an adorable story with a positive message.
The dance movements are explained perfectly and are easy to follow.
I absolutely recommend checking out all of their books. They are delightful.💞

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from the authors through Story Monsters.
This story in the Dance-It-Out set emphasizes family and helping others. Sometimes families don't get along and Princess Naomi wants to get away from her sister to let go of her frustrated feelings. Readers will connect to those times when they need space to cope with emotions and then remember why they are glad to be part of their families. The dance moves flow smoothly to tell this story and release energy and emotions.

[CHenry Roi · Rating 5 out of 5]

The themes of sibling relationships, forgiveness, and helping others resonate throughout the story, making it a meaningful read for young minds. The diverse characters in the series and the emphasis on inclusive storytelling make it appealing to a wide audience. Whether it's for home reading, dance classes, or as a creative curriculum addition, Princess Naomi Helps a Unicorn is a delightful pick.

[Paula Ackley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am looking forward to reading Princess Naomi Helps a Unicorn to my grandson. He is a very active child who has taken dance lessons so I think he'd love the dance movements. The other day when he was asked what to paint on the walls for his soon to be siblng he said unicorns! This is a win-win. I will have to look into more of the Once Upon a Dance books.

[Ann D Blais · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great story for group reading!

I bought this book to read to my 3 granddaughters. They loved doing the dance moves and acting out the story! The story, although predictable, was easy to understand even for the littlest one at 4 years old.

[Heidi Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful, fun Adventure

What an added fun to an adventure to dance while reading makes the story more real. I enjoyed every moment.

[Marianne Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Princess Naomi Helps a Unicorn" by Once Upon a Dance, with illustrations by Ethan Roffler, is a creative read for children, especially those between the ages of four and seven. The story begins with Princess Naomi feeling greatly irritated with her younger sister, Princess Miranda. This familial tension leads Naomi to embark on an unexpected adventure, where she encounters a lost little unicorn. This meeting turns into a journey of rediscovery for Naomi, teaching her the significance of family bonds and compassion.

What sets this book apart is its innovative "Dance-It-Out" concept, which integrates ballet movements into the storytelling. Each page includes demonstrations by real-life ballerina Konora, who illustrates dance moves that complement the narrative. This interactive approach does more than just narrate a story; it invites young readers to express emotions and actions through dance, enhancing their engagement with the book.

The illustrations, done in pencil-and-watercolor, are both charming and vibrant, bringing the story to life with sensory richness. The story is not only enjoyable but also serves as a gentle introduction to managing emotions and fostering empathy. This unique blend of storytelling and physical activity provides a fun and educational experience, encouraging children to explore their bodies, emotions, and the space around them.

"Princess Naomi Helps a Unicorn" is part of a larger "Dance-It-Out" series, each focusing on different ballet movements, making it a fantastic resource for parents and teachers to introduce basic dance concepts to young enthusiasts. The series also includes books like "Brielle’s Birthday Ball," "The Cat with the Crooked Tail," and "Petunia Perks Up," among others, each bringing a fresh set of movements and stories.

In summary, this book is a delightful fusion of fairy tale, dance, and emotional learning, making it a perfect addition to any young reader's collection. The blend of an engaging story with the physical activity of dance creates a unique and memorable experience, both for children and their parents, fostering a love for reading and movement!

[Oliver Endahl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book for children!

First off, the quality of the book is extra great. The book is extremely sturdy and is so sleek it’s almost shimmering. The quality of the pages and the prints are fantastic. The images pop off the page and are beautifully illustrated. (Shout out to the Ethan Roffler for creating the gorgeous imagery)

Story wise, this book (And the entire “Once Upon a Dance Series”) are a great mixture of learning and fun. While the story of Naomi and the Unicorn progresses, “Ballerina Konora” displays various shapes and movements for children to try themselves, so they become immersed in the story. (All the while learning good moral lessons, expanding their knowledge of the world, and learning how their own bodies move.) It’s a great hybrid of childhood development all bundled into one. (And the plot is super fun! It’s a great journey seeing Naomi and the Unicorn travel on their adventure)

I would absolutely recommend this book (And the entire series of them)

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a copy of this for free, to review as part of a book tour with Blackberry Book Tours.

This was a delightful little book, and everything about it made me smile. It was a sweet, simple fairytale with all the magic I hoped for. As a small child, I loved to read fairytales and imagine that I was a princess, living in my own castle, so I know that my younger self would have adored this book. I thought the story was delightful by itself, but it also had a fun dance routine to try, and I think that children will enjoy acting out the story in that way. I thought the illustrations were adorable too, really colourful and cute. Who wouldn't love a book with pictures of cute pink unicorns? Any child who enjoys stories about princesses or unicorns is sure to love this.

Thank you to Blackberry Book Tours, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a fun, unique book to read! My little unicorn lover enjoyed the fun illustrations and acting out the book. The reason I gave the book 4 stars (which, if I could, would be 4.5 stars) was because the pages were visually full of text, and some of the story was a little wordy for the young audience. The little unicorn lover was turned off initially because there was just so much on the page. But, once we propped the book up on the couch, mommy read a page and then we danced-it-out, it became a fun adventure for mommy and the little one to enjoy together. I enjoyed the thorough dance tutorials on each page (it's been quite a while for me). Once you get past all the text on the page, it really is a sweet story and fun book to read to a young child.

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a Dancer, Dance Mum, Dance Teacher and Dance Studio owner spanning over 50 years, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘ Naomi helps a Unicorn’. It’s an adventurous story told with beautiful, whimsical pictures. Through the dance related element of the book, it touched on different emotions and how they make you feel by expressing these emotions through movement. This concept should be well understood by young children, and I feel would be fun for them to act out with the movement shown as well. Another very well written and well thought out book by Once Upon a Dance, that young children would easily relate to, and thoroughly enjoy like I did.

[Katharine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sweet little book combines a fun fantasy story, lessons for kids on getting along and helping others, and interactive movement/dance.

The few French dance terms were a bit much, but otherwise the "creative movement" instructions are clever and engaging - kids can pretend to be the princess, the unicorn, or both.

The hard copy of this book is weird. There are 7 blank sheets at the back, as though there was an issue with the printing/binding. I grabbed a silver Sharpie and wrote at the top of the first one "Can you draw a story of how you helped a unicorn?" so my niece can fill in the blank pages herself.

[Rella B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Princess Naomi Helps a Unicorn" is a charming children's book that invites young readers to dance along with the story, making it an engaging and interactive experience. As Princess Naomi embarks on her adventure to help a unicorn, children learn important lessons about compassion and family. With delightful illustrations and a whimsical narrative, this book is perfect for fostering creativity and movement in kids aged 4 to 6.

[Liza Jimenez · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not formatted for Kindle

I received this as a contest winner on goodreads. The book looks like it would be fun to read and work out with my grand-daughters but it is too tiny to read and it does not seem like it is formatted properly for Kindle.

[Courtney Bear · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful book from Once Upon a Dance.
What a delightful story! We love the illustrations and the movement suggestions. Sometimes we just read the story, and sometimes we follow the prompts and dance along. Love this book and the whole collection.

[L · Rating 5 out of 5]

Get kids moving with this interactive story. Great idea.

[Carola Schmidt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Far too cute! Love it! I love all books by Once Upon a Dance, but I think this is my favorite! You won't regret buying it!