Finding My Feet

Big Cat Read On supports fluent readers to improve their reading skills and nurture a love of reading. Consisting of a wide range of engaging chapter books, the Big Cat Read On series improves reading stamina and comprehension, develops vocabulary, and introduces children to more sophisticated narrative structures and themes.

When I’m dancing, I’m invincible! Nothing can touch me!

My grandmother, Ammamma, is my dance teacher and my best friend. But what happens when the one person who believes in you isn’t there to guide you anymore? How can I carry on dancing when other things have swallowed me up, like grief. Is it time to give it up altogether … or do I just have to find a new dance?

Ask the author and Book talk questions invite the reader to think more deeply about the themes in the book and reflect on their reading experience. Online lesson plans provide guidance in using this book in a range of settings, including independent, social and whole-class reading – all designed to support the reader to connect with the book and encourage a positive attitude to reading.

Annika has over a decade of experience in education, advocacy, and communications. She holds an M.Ed in early childhood special education from Penn State University and an MPH in maternal and child health from George Washington University. She currently serves as a communications executive at a New York City nonprofit focusing on children’s mental health and trauma-informed care In high-risk communities. Her advocacy continued through her founding (and eventual sale) of That Desi Spark, a South Asian media platform. A proud Indian-American, former Bharatanatyam dancer, and mental health advocate, Annika was naturally drawn to bringing stories together of her lived experience and supporting families who face loss, grief, and counseling to cope. She also serves on two advisory boards for mental health in South Asian communities. Annika lives in New York City and loves to read, travel, and spend time with loved ones.