"So You Think You Can Dance" judge Allison Holker and her family celebrate the release of their new children's book "Keep Dancing Through: A Boss Family Groove ." The book is a collaborative effort between Holker and her late husband, Stephen 'tWitch' Boss. Holker began working on the book with Boss in 2021.
Boss passed away by shooting himself in the head on December 13, 2022, only three days after their ninth wedding anniversary celebration. The book serves as a tangible connection for the kids to see and feel his presence.
In a heartfelt moment captured in late December 2023, Holker posted a video of her children - Weslie, Maddox, and Zaia - unwrapping the finished copies of the book for the first time. Holker expressed her joy, stating it was a 'beautiful and magical' experience to witness her children's happiness.
In an interview with People, the 35-year-old dancer expressed her gratitude in witnessing her kids' expressions and joy as they held the book, along with seeing their dad's face.
The book project allowed the kids to participate actively, choosing colors and hairstyles and contributing to its creation. Holker emphasized the positive message embedded in the book, making it a treasured keepsake for her children to cherish and reflect on their family journey.
In a conversation with ET, Holken shared her desire to write a children's book after her eldest daughter was born, but life got busy, and the idea slipped away. It resurfaced when she and Boss had their younger children.
READ ALSO: Winter Literary Gems: 7 Small Press Books You Should Dive Into
Holker mentioned that the book's significance has evolved, especially after her husband's passing. Now, it serves as a way for her kids to reminisce about the wonderful moments they shared. The book takes readers through a typical day in their lives, capturing the beauty of their memories. Holker expressed her desire for the book to represent the positive aspects of their life and serve as affirmations, encouraging not just her children but others to lift their spirits and cherish beautiful memories.
Reflecting on the support they received, Holker mentioned the importance of sharing this moment with everyone who has been supporting and praying for their family. As they continue to heal, the children are moving forward with their passions. Weslie, a high school sophomore, is also in beauty school. Maddox has taken up football, while Zaia is venturing into dance after a year doing gymnastics.
Holker shares that in writing "Keep Dancing Through," she and Boss aimed to teach families an important lesson. The book is designed to show kids and parents the significance of having meaningful conversations with each other every day.
Holker highlighted the importance of the book's message and the memories associated with its creation. She hopes that the book serves as an inspiration to others to have strength and be resilient in the face of adversity.
RELATED ARTICLE: 'Dad I Can Read': New Book by Father-Son Duo Transforms Learning Into Joyful Bonding