Why Do You Dance When You Walk

Papa is asked by his 8-year-old daughter why he dances when he walks, and he recalls his childhood in Paris, including his mysterious mother, shanty roofs, and the attack that changed his life. The story is about the complexity of family, the value of poetry and freedom, and the ripple effect of traumas.

Format: Paperback / softback
Publication date: 22 November 2022
Publisher: Cassava Republic Press

Papa, why do you dance when you walk? When Aden's 8-year-old daughter asks him this one morning in Paris, he is taken aback. The question is innocent, but the answer is not so simple. Unable to resist Bea's inquisitive spirit, he moves silkily between memories of his childhood: from his silent, mysterious mother and the shanty roofs of his neighborhood to the malicious attack that changed his life forever and the ensuing struggle that made him a man. Anchoring his memories is a Djibouti on the cusp of independence; a land of shifting deserts and immense heat, French-from-France ex-pats, and one lonely and sick boy finding solace in books.

Why Do You Dance When You Walk is a poignant and timeless story of the complexity of family, the value of poetry and freedom, and the ripple effect of the traumas that stalk our movement.

Aden's childhood was marked by a series of events that shaped his life. His mother was silent and mysterious, and he often wondered about her past. He grew up in a shanty town, where he faced many challenges. One day, he was attacked by a group of boys who wanted to steal his books. The attack left him injured and traumatized.

Despite the hardships he faced, Aden remained determined to pursue his love of poetry. He found solace in books and spent hours reading and writing. He even started a small poetry club with his friends, where they would meet and share their work.

As Aden grew older, he became more aware of the political situation in Djibouti. The country was on the cusp of independence, and there was a sense of excitement and anticipation in the air. Aden was drawn to the country's rich culture and history, and he decided to move there to pursue his studies.

In Djibouti, Aden met a young boy named Hassan. Hassan was lonely and sick, and he found solace in books as well. The two boys became friends, and Aden helped Hassan to improve his English and learn about poetry.

As time passed, Aden's poetry began to gain recognition. He was invited to read his work at literary events and festivals, and his work was published in magazines and newspapers. He even won a prestigious poetry prize.

Despite his success, Aden never forgot his roots. He continued to write about his childhood and the challenges he faced, using his poetry to express his emotions and connect with others.

Why Do You Dance When You Walk is a powerful and moving story of resilience, determination, and the power of poetry to heal. It is a testament to the human spirit and the importance of never giving up on our dreams.

In conclusion, Papa, why do you dance when you walk? The answer to this question is complex and multifaceted. It is a story of resilience, determination, and the power of poetry to heal. It is a testament to the human spirit and the importance of never giving up on our dreams.

Weight: 148g
Dimension: 135 x 213 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781913175320