Book details
Keep Dancing, Lizzie Chu
Description
Keep trying, keep laughing, keep dancing! A heart-warming novel from the Blue Peter Book Award shortlisted author of Danny Chung Does Not Do Maths. 12-year-old Lizzie Chu lives in Glasgow with her grandad Wai Gong, and he's been acting a little strangely lately. He is becoming forgetful. A girl tries to cheer up her grieving, forgetful grandfather by taking him on a rollicking road-trip adventure in Keep Dancing, Lizzie Chu, a charming and poignant middle-grade novel from award-winning author Maisie Chan. Twelve-year-old Lizzie Chu has lived with her wai gong (grandfather) in Glasgow since her parents died when she was a baby. But Wai Gong has been acting different lately. He spends a lot of time talking to his Guan Yin statue—the Chinese goddess of compassion, kindness, and mercy—at his altar and seems to be becoming more forgetful. Even the shared passion he and Lizzie have for their favorite show, Strictly Come Dancing, seems to be tailing off. Then one day Lizzie’s friend Chi visits dressed as Princess Leia for Comic Con, and Wai Gong mistakes her for Guan Yin. He’s delighted—and Lizzie gets an idea. She and Chi (dressed as the goddess) can take Wai Gong to a ballroom dance at the Tower Ballroom, where he’d always dreamed of going with his late wife. If only she can get her granddad there, she thinks, he’ll find some peace, and perhaps things will be OK at home again. After all, one of the myths around Guan Yin is that she brings order and harmony, so it’s got to work out—right?
Age
8-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
240 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: The book may provide a deep dive into the cultural background of the protagonist, offering readers a chance to learn about and appreciate diverse traditions and lifestyles.
- Character Development: Lizzie Chu, as the central character, likely undergoes significant personal growth throughout the story, making it a compelling read for those interested in character-driven narratives.
- Inspirational Themes: The title suggests themes of perseverance and passion, as 'Keep Dancing' implies a message of continuing to pursue one's dreams despite challenges, which can be motivational for readers.
- Engaging Storytelling: Maisie Chan may be known for her engaging and heartfelt storytelling, making 'Keep Dancing, Lizzie Chu' a book that promises to keep readers invested from start to finish with its emotional depth and narrative drive.