Ladybugs Don't Dance by Dr. Ruth Degman-Reed, is an exciting and creative story for elementary readers. It has such themes as friendship, dreams, wishes, sharing, perseverance , conflict and resolution. The story is told by an old black beetle with a long grey beard and a striped cane. Dottie Lottie lives at Ladybug Landing with her mother. She is a beautiful young ladybug with distinctive markings. She has a passion that drives her to achieve the impossible dream of being a creative dancer. Dottie Lottie feels the terrible pain of being discouraged by some and tested and challenged by others. She learns through the moments of fear and courage, when faced with dangers in the insect world. She experiences the value of disagreement and knows that dreams and love connect her life together. Her heart tells her to never give up and she soon realizes the meaning of hard work and achievement of goals. She experiences the joy and support of friendship with Crescendo Cricket, who also has a dream and becomes a part of the adventure. At Metric Meadows, they plan to join their dreams together; and with hard work, teamwork, and sharing, they achieve the impossible dream to be shared with others at Lilypad Lane. Their lives are changed forever.