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A Place to Dance: How Richard Lamberty Brought Change to the Ballroom
Who says only girls can twirl and boys must take the lead on the dance floor?
Celebrate same-gender ballroom dancing with renowned dancer Richard Lamberty as he breaks traditional gender roles, while promoting diversity and inclusivity in dance.
When dancer Richard Lamberty was a child, he loved dancing—especially ballroom dancing. But he was always jealous of the moves female dancers got to do. Intrigued by the female dancers’ different steps, Richard developed the skills to dance either role in order to compete with a male partner in the Gay Games in Europe. He then came back to the United States and cofounded April Follies, the longest-running and largest queer partner dance competition in North America.
Richard Lamberty is a two-time world champion ballroom dancer whose story inspires the LGBTQIA+ community to put on their dance shoes and do what they love.
Celebrate same-gender ballroom dancing with renowned dancer Richard Lamberty as he breaks traditional gender roles, while promoting diversity and inclusivity in dance.
When dancer Richard Lamberty was a child, he loved dancing—especially ballroom dancing. But he was always jealous of the moves female dancers got to do. Intrigued by the female dancers’ different steps, Richard developed the skills to dance either role in order to compete with a male partner in the Gay Games in Europe. He then came back to the United States and cofounded April Follies, the longest-running and largest queer partner dance competition in North America.
Richard Lamberty is a two-time world champion ballroom dancer whose story inspires the LGBTQIA+ community to put on their dance shoes and do what they love.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published August 4, 2026
About the author
Eric Rosswood
16 books83 followersEric Rosswood is a commentator on LGBTQ+ issues including civil rights, parenting, marriage, and politics. He has led panels on LGBTQ+ parenting for organizations such as Family Equality and the Modern Family Alliance. His bestselling book, Journey to Same-Sex Parenthood, won numerous awards including the best Parenting/Family/Relationships book in the IAN Book of the Year Awards, the best Parenting book in the Readers’ Favorite Book Awards, and the best LGBTQ Non-Fiction book in the International Best Book Awards. His picture book, STRONG, co-written with Rob Kearney with illustrations by Nidhi Chanani, received the Stonewall Honor from the American Library Association.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
April 9, 2026
A wonderful picture book about same sex ballroom dancing. Always something I wanted to try but never did. Inspirational reading the story of the man who made it happen.
August 15, 2026
Sweet book. Great pictures and message. Made me want to watch “Strictly Ballroom.”
May 12, 2026
Thank you Netgalley and Charlesbridge for sharing a digital advance reader copy of this book with me in exchange for an honest review.
This story of Richard Lamberty's pioneering efforts in dance calls to mind the words of another trailblazer, the great Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, who said: if they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair." Richard Lamberty did not wait for his seat at the table -- or better yet, his place on the dance floor -- he created the space where he could be himself and empower others to do the same, while doing something they loved to do. I absolutely adored this essential picture book, which arrives at a perfect time in this world, where all people -- big humans and little humans alike -- need to be reminded of the ways making space for authenticity and joy in our life gives space for others to do the same in theirs. I had never heard of Richard Lamberty before this book, and as someone who took a course in ballroom dance in college, and who paid attention to it and competitive dance from time to time, that is a real gap in my knowledge that would have made a world of difference to me as a young queer person. Thankfully, authors Eric Rosswood and Richard Lamberty, and illustrator Vincent Chen, have given us a picture book biography told in powerful prose and image, a big leap in ensuring that this story is made more widely known to all readers of history, biography, and the performing arts.
The way Rosswood and Lamberty introduce the threads of joy through aunthenticity early on as a lesson in young Richard's life, and follow that as a principle he holds onto that galvanizes him into creating change that is impactful also to others, was well executed. The author's note was wonderful for giving even more context than could be included in the book, further demonstrating Lamberty's historymaking efforts and also the work of others with whom he created community and a place they could enjoy dance on their own terms. The illustrations match the whimsy of the story and dance itself, and use color and line in ways that, even when the book deals with the more emotionally upsetting/challenging parts of Lamberty's experience with bigotry along the lines of gender and sexuality, Chen's work gives levity to be able to engage it still. I especially loved the ending pages that showed dancers in clothing presenting a range of gender identity and expressions, showing how the shifts in dance led also to other barriers being broken around self-presentation in dance as well. The archival images of Lamberty in competition were a wonderful touch, as was his direct essay/comment to the reader at the end.
A terrific book that will be immediately added to my collection and among the books I will share with students and families for years to come.
This story of Richard Lamberty's pioneering efforts in dance calls to mind the words of another trailblazer, the great Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm, who said: if they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair." Richard Lamberty did not wait for his seat at the table -- or better yet, his place on the dance floor -- he created the space where he could be himself and empower others to do the same, while doing something they loved to do. I absolutely adored this essential picture book, which arrives at a perfect time in this world, where all people -- big humans and little humans alike -- need to be reminded of the ways making space for authenticity and joy in our life gives space for others to do the same in theirs. I had never heard of Richard Lamberty before this book, and as someone who took a course in ballroom dance in college, and who paid attention to it and competitive dance from time to time, that is a real gap in my knowledge that would have made a world of difference to me as a young queer person. Thankfully, authors Eric Rosswood and Richard Lamberty, and illustrator Vincent Chen, have given us a picture book biography told in powerful prose and image, a big leap in ensuring that this story is made more widely known to all readers of history, biography, and the performing arts.
The way Rosswood and Lamberty introduce the threads of joy through aunthenticity early on as a lesson in young Richard's life, and follow that as a principle he holds onto that galvanizes him into creating change that is impactful also to others, was well executed. The author's note was wonderful for giving even more context than could be included in the book, further demonstrating Lamberty's historymaking efforts and also the work of others with whom he created community and a place they could enjoy dance on their own terms. The illustrations match the whimsy of the story and dance itself, and use color and line in ways that, even when the book deals with the more emotionally upsetting/challenging parts of Lamberty's experience with bigotry along the lines of gender and sexuality, Chen's work gives levity to be able to engage it still. I especially loved the ending pages that showed dancers in clothing presenting a range of gender identity and expressions, showing how the shifts in dance led also to other barriers being broken around self-presentation in dance as well. The archival images of Lamberty in competition were a wonderful touch, as was his direct essay/comment to the reader at the end.
A terrific book that will be immediately added to my collection and among the books I will share with students and families for years to come.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
5 stars 🌟
*I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley. This doesn't affect my opinion, rating or review. Thank you to NetGalley, Charlesbridge and the authors for the ARC. Quotes are subject to change.
Having just read and loved Felix Finds His Polish by Eric Rosswood, when I saw A Place to Dance, I thought to pick it up. I didn't know anything about Richard Lamberty before reading this book, but I am definitely quite inspired by the story.
The illustrations were gorgeous, but it also had many historical facts which would be a good learning for younger readers as well.
Overall, a great book definitely worth the read, and one that will be very comforting and spark a lot of conversations, specially among kids. Would recommend!
Publication Date: 4th August 2026
#Book 78 of 2026.
#Book 13 for Pride Month June 2026- Rep: Gay, LGBT+ Author .
Review written on 9th June, 2026.
DISCLAIMER-All opinions on books I’ve read and reviewed are my own, and are with no intention to offend anyone. If you feel offended by my reviews, let me know how I can fix it.
How I Rate-
1 star- Hardly liked anything/ was disappointed
2 star- Had potential but did not deliver/ was disappointed
3 stars- Was ok but could have been better/ was average / Enjoyed a lot but something was missing
4 stars- Loved a lot but something was missing
5 stars- Loved it/ new favourite
*I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley. This doesn't affect my opinion, rating or review. Thank you to NetGalley, Charlesbridge and the authors for the ARC. Quotes are subject to change.
"Everyone belongs on the dance floor!"
Having just read and loved Felix Finds His Polish by Eric Rosswood, when I saw A Place to Dance, I thought to pick it up. I didn't know anything about Richard Lamberty before reading this book, but I am definitely quite inspired by the story.
The illustrations were gorgeous, but it also had many historical facts which would be a good learning for younger readers as well.
Overall, a great book definitely worth the read, and one that will be very comforting and spark a lot of conversations, specially among kids. Would recommend!
Publication Date: 4th August 2026
#Book 78 of 2026.
#Book 13 for Pride Month June 2026- Rep: Gay, LGBT+ Author .
Review written on 9th June, 2026.
DISCLAIMER-All opinions on books I’ve read and reviewed are my own, and are with no intention to offend anyone. If you feel offended by my reviews, let me know how I can fix it.
How I Rate-
1 star- Hardly liked anything/ was disappointed
2 star- Had potential but did not deliver/ was disappointed
3 stars- Was ok but could have been better/ was average / Enjoyed a lot but something was missing
4 stars- Loved a lot but something was missing
5 stars- Loved it/ new favourite
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Richard Lamberty, a light-skinned man with red hair and a big grin, helped inspire change in ballroom dancing by hosting same-gender competitions, which would come to be known as the April Follies. Starting from a young age, he wanted to be a dancer and discovered ballroom as a teen. Lamberty felt a desire to dance both parts (the lead and follow), which led to conflict when he found he could only dance the lead role in ballroom competitions– commonly the “male” role. After discovering the Gay Games in Amsterdam in 1998, Lamberty tried to bring same-sex ballroom competitions to the US, but was met with “angry stares and complaints.” So he, along with Ava Kaye and Tom Slater, created a new competition: the April Follies. The book ends with a “brief history” and a “note from Richard.” This story is great history for the LGBTQ+ community and ballroom dancing.
Rosswood tells the story in a way easily understandable for young readers, and doesn’t overwhelm the reader with excessive text. He helps bring Lamberty’s story to life in a straightforward and simple format, reading more like a picture book than a typical biography. Chen’s illustrations are bright and fun. Created digitally, the cartoon-ish style with whimsical, sweeping lights and lots of sparkles make this an exciting visual story for all ages. The pages are brimming with gold–a perfect metaphor for this winning change in ballroom dancing. A Place to Dance is a fun and accessible way to experience a lesser-known but important piece of U.S. history, and will bring a smile to readers and dancers alike. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
Rosswood tells the story in a way easily understandable for young readers, and doesn’t overwhelm the reader with excessive text. He helps bring Lamberty’s story to life in a straightforward and simple format, reading more like a picture book than a typical biography. Chen’s illustrations are bright and fun. Created digitally, the cartoon-ish style with whimsical, sweeping lights and lots of sparkles make this an exciting visual story for all ages. The pages are brimming with gold–a perfect metaphor for this winning change in ballroom dancing. A Place to Dance is a fun and accessible way to experience a lesser-known but important piece of U.S. history, and will bring a smile to readers and dancers alike. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Me: "I'm really stingy with my five star ratings."
Also me: "And YOU get five stars!!! And YOU! And also YOU!"
It probably helped that I read this in the middle of reading Hida Viloria's memoir about discovering the intersex community. While "A Place to Dance" doesn't overly challenge the overall idea of gender, it still challenges gender norms. And while this book is, on one level, about oppression, it's also above movement and joy and loving something so much that you find a way to keep doing it. I knew literally nothing about Richard Lamberty before reading this, and as one does, I immediately looked up the April Follies and watched a little documentary. Was I sobbing? Yes, I was.
This being a picture book, the narrative is simplified and condensed so that young readers can follow it. Vincent Chen (of "Hot Pot Night!" which is also great) brings color and motion and striking diversity to the accompanying images. It's such a small detail, but there's one panel with the April Follies that includes a competitor in a wheelchair. I won't get into why that was so important to see, but it was, and I loved it.
I think a lot about community organizing, usually around "more important" things. (Big scare quotes there, because this event is so significant to so many people.) It was great to see a book for young people that showed real people bringing joy to the work, and how that work is ultimately changing things in the wider world. Especially meaningful at a time when we're backsliding on so many human and civil rights fronts.
So, five stars. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Also me: "And YOU get five stars!!! And YOU! And also YOU!"
It probably helped that I read this in the middle of reading Hida Viloria's memoir about discovering the intersex community. While "A Place to Dance" doesn't overly challenge the overall idea of gender, it still challenges gender norms. And while this book is, on one level, about oppression, it's also above movement and joy and loving something so much that you find a way to keep doing it. I knew literally nothing about Richard Lamberty before reading this, and as one does, I immediately looked up the April Follies and watched a little documentary. Was I sobbing? Yes, I was.
This being a picture book, the narrative is simplified and condensed so that young readers can follow it. Vincent Chen (of "Hot Pot Night!" which is also great) brings color and motion and striking diversity to the accompanying images. It's such a small detail, but there's one panel with the April Follies that includes a competitor in a wheelchair. I won't get into why that was so important to see, but it was, and I loved it.
I think a lot about community organizing, usually around "more important" things. (Big scare quotes there, because this event is so significant to so many people.) It was great to see a book for young people that showed real people bringing joy to the work, and how that work is ultimately changing things in the wider world. Especially meaningful at a time when we're backsliding on so many human and civil rights fronts.
So, five stars. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a joy it was to read this book! It is one of my goals to constantly learn more about 2SLGBT+ history, especially in sports. This book details the life of Richard Lamberty and how his joy for dance and drive for equality changed ballroom dancing.
This book is ideal for children aged 6 to 8, but can definitely be enjoyed by others beyond this range! The themes and topics were well-suited to this age, as this age is just beginning to expand their worldview. I can see 6-8 year olds being able to read this book solely, as the vocabulary is within their grasp. Each page had the right amount of words and bright, attention-grabbing pictures.
Richard’s story is thought provoking. “Who made the rules?” he asks at one point, and I think this should be bolder and stamped all over this book! Questioning the status quo is such an important skill for children to learn, and it’s one us as adults still need to hone. We shouldn’t just accept things because that’s the way they are, we should question them, because this is where growth and betterment comes from. The exploration of this concept is what makes this book special, and makes it a must-read for all.
Thank you to NetGalley and Charlesbridge for granting me access to an e-ARC of “A Place to Dance: How Richard Lamberty Brought Change to the Ballroom” by Eric Rosswood and Richard Lamberty in exchange for an honest review.
This book is ideal for children aged 6 to 8, but can definitely be enjoyed by others beyond this range! The themes and topics were well-suited to this age, as this age is just beginning to expand their worldview. I can see 6-8 year olds being able to read this book solely, as the vocabulary is within their grasp. Each page had the right amount of words and bright, attention-grabbing pictures.
Richard’s story is thought provoking. “Who made the rules?” he asks at one point, and I think this should be bolder and stamped all over this book! Questioning the status quo is such an important skill for children to learn, and it’s one us as adults still need to hone. We shouldn’t just accept things because that’s the way they are, we should question them, because this is where growth and betterment comes from. The exploration of this concept is what makes this book special, and makes it a must-read for all.
Thank you to NetGalley and Charlesbridge for granting me access to an e-ARC of “A Place to Dance: How Richard Lamberty Brought Change to the Ballroom” by Eric Rosswood and Richard Lamberty in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you so much to Charlesbridge and Netgalley for the ebook to read and review.
Wow this was very powerful, beautiful, informative and incredible. I loved this story sharing about same-sex partnered dancing and the wonderful humans that created a safe and inclusive place for everyone to dance, with who ever they choose.
I loved learning all about Richard Lamberty and his love of dancing, how that passion and love he had right from a young child gave him a great opportunity to teach and learn more skills along the way. He then went on to go after his dreams of dancing the traditionally female parts with a partner and creating something wonderful for so many people around the world.
I loved the illustrations, they were beautiful seeing everyone dancing, the beautiful costumes they were all wearing, I especially loved his bright Orange outfit at the end. I liked seeing so much inclusivity throughout the book too which was nice to see. This is a great book for those young readers that love dancing and it’s also just a wonderful sweet read that I recommend.
Wow this was very powerful, beautiful, informative and incredible. I loved this story sharing about same-sex partnered dancing and the wonderful humans that created a safe and inclusive place for everyone to dance, with who ever they choose.
I loved learning all about Richard Lamberty and his love of dancing, how that passion and love he had right from a young child gave him a great opportunity to teach and learn more skills along the way. He then went on to go after his dreams of dancing the traditionally female parts with a partner and creating something wonderful for so many people around the world.
I loved the illustrations, they were beautiful seeing everyone dancing, the beautiful costumes they were all wearing, I especially loved his bright Orange outfit at the end. I liked seeing so much inclusivity throughout the book too which was nice to see. This is a great book for those young readers that love dancing and it’s also just a wonderful sweet read that I recommend.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a free eARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The cover of this one drew me in, and I wasn’t familiar with Richard Lamberty. I also love a good picture book biography!
Richard had a talent for dancing from a young age, but because he was a boy, he could only dance the “boring” parts of ballroom combinations (I’ve never really thought about it before, but it’s true - the girls really get to both have all the fun AND do all of the work when it comes to most ballroom-style dances!). Thanks to Richard and his friends creating a dance competition where folks can dance with whoever they want, rules are finally changing in the ballroom dance world.
The book is your standard simplified biography, showing Richad as he grew up and learned how to dance, and ultimately started his own ballroom competition. The book also includes a short biography and a note from Richard himself, which adds a little extra context.
Richard had a talent for dancing from a young age, but because he was a boy, he could only dance the “boring” parts of ballroom combinations (I’ve never really thought about it before, but it’s true - the girls really get to both have all the fun AND do all of the work when it comes to most ballroom-style dances!). Thanks to Richard and his friends creating a dance competition where folks can dance with whoever they want, rules are finally changing in the ballroom dance world.
The book is your standard simplified biography, showing Richad as he grew up and learned how to dance, and ultimately started his own ballroom competition. The book also includes a short biography and a note from Richard himself, which adds a little extra context.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dance has always intrigued me. But as an awkward closeted person who struggled with gender norms and grew up poor I never got into the sport. I've always enjoyed watching it though so I was excited to have the opportunity to read this book.
A Place to Dance shares the true story of Richard Lamberty and how he helped make ballroom dancing more inclusive to all genders.
The story is told well and in an engaging manner. Coupled with the colorful and somehow very flowy illustrations that add to the graceful elegance of ballroom this book is just gorgeous. I also loved that the illustrations included depictions of some of his unique costumes.
I loved that the story was shared further for the caregivers in the back. Offering details and more information, including resources, about same gender dancing that they can share if the child shows further interest in the topic of dancing.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
A Place to Dance shares the true story of Richard Lamberty and how he helped make ballroom dancing more inclusive to all genders.
The story is told well and in an engaging manner. Coupled with the colorful and somehow very flowy illustrations that add to the graceful elegance of ballroom this book is just gorgeous. I also loved that the illustrations included depictions of some of his unique costumes.
I loved that the story was shared further for the caregivers in the back. Offering details and more information, including resources, about same gender dancing that they can share if the child shows further interest in the topic of dancing.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
August 21, 2026
This was such a cool and unique read! I really enjoyed getting a glimpse into the world of ballroom dancing and felt like I was genuinely immersed in the culture throughout the story. The authors did a great job bringing the dance world to life and making the setting feel vibrant and authentic.
I especially enjoyed learning about the dedication, discipline, and passion that goes into ballroom dancing. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the artistry and hard work behind the performances, and I found myself really invested in the world the book created.
While it wasn’t a complete five-star read for me, I still thought it was an interesting and memorable book. If you’re curious about ballroom dance or enjoy getting immersed in a world you may not know much about, this is definitely a unique read to pick up! 💃📚✨
thank you NetGalley for my copy of this ARC!
I especially enjoyed learning about the dedication, discipline, and passion that goes into ballroom dancing. It gave me a whole new appreciation for the artistry and hard work behind the performances, and I found myself really invested in the world the book created.
While it wasn’t a complete five-star read for me, I still thought it was an interesting and memorable book. If you’re curious about ballroom dance or enjoy getting immersed in a world you may not know much about, this is definitely a unique read to pick up! 💃📚✨
thank you NetGalley for my copy of this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Place to Dance is a bright and hopeful picture book about a dancer making his own place in the world, when the one he needed didn't exist yet. While ballroom dancing can't be seen as a super kid-friendly topic, the book starts with Richard as a child and brings his experiences to a level young children can understand. While I'm not sure kids will be captivated by the establishment of dance competitions, they will understand finding or creating a place that is welcoming and includes everyone. The illustrations stand out in this volume. While fairly simple, they feel joyful and luminous when depicting Richard and his friends dancing and enjoying themselves.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Not many children’s books make me cry, but my heart was full to overflowing by the end of this beautiful and bright book. Richard Lamberty and his friends helped make ballroom and other competitive dancing a more inclusive space, so younger generations now have more opportunities to dance and dance with whom ever they want. As someone planning to be a parent soon, this is the kind of book I want share with my own children.
I liked that there was the main story, and then a brief but more detailed history and a letter directly from Lamberty. There’s also some great resources listed at the end for further reading.
Thanks NetGalley for the free digital copy. Opinions are my own.
I liked that there was the main story, and then a brief but more detailed history and a letter directly from Lamberty. There’s also some great resources listed at the end for further reading.
Thanks NetGalley for the free digital copy. Opinions are my own.
September 15, 2026
Thanks to NetGalley for the eARC!
I'm a huge fan of picture book biographies in general, and I love seeing queer role models get their due in this format! While any kid can get something out of this great example of when to break the rules, it might be particularly useful for children in traditionally gendered hobbies, to get them thinking about how to make those spaces more comfortable and inclusive for everyone. And maybe it will get some kids into ballroom! Lamberty's passion for dance, and his will to chase joy despite other's disapproval, comes through in the storytelling and illustrations.
I'm a huge fan of picture book biographies in general, and I love seeing queer role models get their due in this format! While any kid can get something out of this great example of when to break the rules, it might be particularly useful for children in traditionally gendered hobbies, to get them thinking about how to make those spaces more comfortable and inclusive for everyone. And maybe it will get some kids into ballroom! Lamberty's passion for dance, and his will to chase joy despite other's disapproval, comes through in the storytelling and illustrations.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a copy of this eBook from netGalley for a honest review.
I'm proud to live in a world where dance can be whatever you need it to be! Richard Lamberty has helped make that possible just by being himself and searching for more in life. This picture book is a wonderful expression of his life and love for dance.
I'm proud to live in a world where dance can be whatever you need it to be! Richard Lamberty has helped make that possible just by being himself and searching for more in life. This picture book is a wonderful expression of his life and love for dance.
August 18, 2026
Absolutely love this. Fabulous true story, illustrated brilliantly. Very worthy of sharing with others. Very appropriate for all ages.
Richard is an inspiration as well as an incredible instructor, dancer and choreographer in the ballroom and Round Dance (essentially choreographed ballroom) worlds.
Richard is an inspiration as well as an incredible instructor, dancer and choreographer in the ballroom and Round Dance (essentially choreographed ballroom) worlds.
August 31, 2026
This was a perfect little read! Definitely one I would love to see at our Library. It’s inspiring, beautiful, and just such a warm read. 😊
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars.
My thanks to Charlesbridge, the Author, and NetGalley for the Digital ARC. This book is ALREADY OUT!!! Go check it out for yourself and see what you think! (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧Bye~Bye~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 stars.
My thanks to Charlesbridge, the Author, and NetGalley for the Digital ARC. This book is ALREADY OUT!!! Go check it out for yourself and see what you think! (ﾉ◕ヮ◕)ﾉ*:･ﾟ✧Bye~Bye~
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh this is a book I'm going to buy! I loved the artwork. I loved the story. I loved the message. Everything was perfection. I have absolutely no notes.
My daughter has since made me read it to her every night.
My daughter has since made me read it to her every night.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to the publisher who made this available for review through SLJ's Picture Book Palooza. This in no way changed my rating.
The story was very sweet and encouraging. I liked the story for the most part. I think this was let down a bit by the illustrations. They were very basic.
The story was very sweet and encouraging. I liked the story for the most part. I think this was let down a bit by the illustrations. They were very basic.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This straightforward (pun intended!) picture book tells the dancing journey of Richard Lamberty, who is a founding member of a same-sex dance competition. I love the lack of bias!
This is such an inspiration for people to be themselves and follow their dreams. Highly recommend.
This is such an inspiration for people to be themselves and follow their dreams. Highly recommend.
September 6, 2026
An incredibly joyful biography about an incredibly talented ballroom dancer who helped create a space in ballroom dancing for everybody. I knew little about the world of LGBTQ+ ballroom dancing and was so grateful to learn more. He is a remarkable man!
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
While dance is a popular subject, ballroom dancing is not. Therefore to see a new part of an old theme is fun and seeing it within the LGBTQ world is a great bonus. Read via an online reader copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Wow such a sweet little book .
It was really interesting. I'd definitely buy it if it was in shops near me .
I'd definitely read a full book about Richard Lamberty
It was really interesting. I'd definitely buy it if it was in shops near me .
I'd definitely read a full book about Richard Lamberty
August 24, 2026
I love this picture book biography of the man who helped make space for LGBTQ dancers! I had never heard of him! Recommended for kids AND adults!
August 25, 2026
I had a great time learning about the history of same-sex dancing in this picture book!
September 2, 2026
The art is cute and the story is inspiring.
Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews