Aisling & Amelia

'A heartfelt story about friendship and doing what you love. Aisling's creativity shines through along with Amelia's perseverance, and the illustrations give life to the dance moves. O'Hely seamlessly integrates ballet terminology into the plot, making the book both fun and educational. A must for anyone wanting to learn more about ballet or how to be a good friend.' Madi Manning and Jane Doherty, Teacher-Librarians Kelvin Grove State College; 'A book that offers hope, that encourages understanding, that proves the worth of friends, that says, "Chin up! You can do it."' Gary Crew, Professor Emeritus, (Creative Writing) Uni SC, multi-award winning author of The Watertower; 'Interwoven with melodic classical ballet terminology and images of childhood fun, Aisling and Amelia describes a special connection between two young ballet students and how they learn to see beyond their differences and grow to understand the true nature of friendship.' Michelle Machen Associate of the Royal Academy of Dance; 'Aisling and Amelia centres on the developing friendship between an able-bodied dancer and a dancer with a limb difference. Nurtured inclusively by their supportive dance teacher Miss Karissa, the girls each overcome their fears, doubts, and nerves, to learn and perform a duet together. In the process of sharing their common passion for dance, the two girls become enduring best friends. O'Hely tells a truly inclusive story, reflecting the full participation and contribution of all bodies in dance, and the power of dance to bring people together.' Rachel Richmond Dance and Drama Teacher; 'A thoughtfully written and charmingly illustrated story. A good introduction for children unfamiliar with disability.' Alex Jay McDonald, Creative Contributor and Designer; 'Aisling and Amelia is an important book - it introduces and normalises disability to young minds in a respectful, poignant and powerful way. It also celebrates a love of dance, and learning tricky words. Five stars.' Cate Sawyer, Author; 'A charming story little girls will love. The playful language patterns and absorbing illustrations help normalise disability, making it a valuable addition to the beloved ballerina genre.' Jasmine Lewers, Reviewer.