Curious Mind and Dancing Feet by Melinda González
Publisher: Free Spirit Publishing
Genre: Contemporary, Children’s (0-6 y.o.)
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by GingerA young girl with ADHD celebrates what makes her who she is
In Curious Mind and Dancing Feet, a young girl explains what it’s like to live with ADHD. Sometimes her mind wants to wander, and she often gets the wiggles. But when it comes to bugs, she’s laser focused. People don’t understand why she fills her pockets with bug-friendly snacks, and they don’t have to. The important thing is, her Mami, Abuelita, and friends understand, and they help her embrace her ADHD when she starts to feel jumbled up. With ADHD, life is complicated—and full of joy and wonder.
Offers an honest portrayal of life with ADHD, including challenges and strengths
Celebrates disability joy and offers an empowering self-representation for disabled kids
Helps children develop empathy and understanding with first-person storytelling from a child’s perspective
Centers disabled voices by drawing on the author’s experience with ADHD
Features a Puerto Rican and Muslim girl as the main characterThe Disability Books for Kids series explores visible and invisible disability in the first person, as seen through the eyes of children and written from firsthand experience. The series builds allyship, challenges ableism, and celebrates difference, empowering and educating all readers. Each book includes an author’s note to the reader.
Curious Mind and Dancing Feet is a joyful, beautifully illustrated celebration of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and the unique strengths it brings. The artwork is vibrant and engaging, perfectly matching the energy and curiosity of the young girl at the center of the story. I love how clearly the book explains ADHD, its characteristics, its challenges, and the myths that often surround it. In a way that’s accessible for children and eye‑opening for adults. The story highlights that it’s not only okay to be different, but that those differences bring creativity, expression, joy, and a wonderful sense of curiosity about the world.
The main character’s love for bugs, her wandering mind, and her “dancing feet” are portrayed with warmth and authenticity. Her family’s support shows the power of understanding and acceptance. It’s a beautiful reminder that children thrive when the people around them embrace who they are. This book is an excellent resource for schools, classrooms, and personal libraries. It encourages empathy, celebrates disability joy, and offers empowering representation for kids with ADHD. A meaningful, uplifting read that shines with heart.
A definite five-star addition to any child’s bookshelf.
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