BBC Strictly Come Dancing's Janette Manrara's 'tears' as she says she 'can't believe it's all happening' as fans support

Janette Manrara has said she still 'can't believe' the direction of her career is currently taking as she prepares for her next big step. The former Strictly Come Dancing professional dancer will release her very first book later this year.

Janette confirmed the news in November as she took to social media to reveal she has put pen to paper as she turned 40. She told how she'd be releasing 'Tiny Dancer, BIG world' in August 2024 and according to the synopsis, the book will see Janette "share a delightful blend of advice, inspirational stories and life lessons from her time on stage and screen."

Sharing the mock cover to her hundreds of thousands of followers on Instagram at the time, Janette said: "I cannot believe I’m actually announcing this but... I HAVE A BOOK COMING SOON!!! I’m an author!! Still pinching myself at the thought!! Releasing a book has been a long time dream of mine and to finally share the news of it on my 40th Birthday feels like the best present I could have asked for!"

READ MORE: Adam Thomas says he needs to be 'kinder' to himself after admitting 'stressful' time

Join our WhatsApp Top Stories and Breaking News group by clicking this link

She went on to say: "The last couple of years I have been doing a lot of work on myself, and I have also received a certification in well-being. Turning 40 today, I have never felt more aware of who I am, or felt better about how to deal with all of life ups and downs; all while still learning and growing daily.

"I wanted to share with everyone a book that feels like a best friend or a big sister; sharing everything I’ve learnt so far for readers to apply to their own lives, while at the same time sharing snippets of my own life’s journey. I hope this book will create many smiles, inspire thoughts of joy, and help you navigate the world we live in with courage and light in your heart always."

Now, Janette has given a glimpse behind the scenes at the photo shoot for the front cover of her debut book which she said was a "passion project" that had been in the works "for years". She also revealed that the dress she was wearing was the one she wore after her daughter, Lyra Rose, was born in July 2023.

Alongside the video of the exciting day, Janette wrote to her fans and followers: "I cannot believe it’s all happening! My book cover for 'Tiny Dancer, BIG World' will be revealed very soon! We had such a beautiful day doing the shoot for it."

She added: "There were tears of joy at the end of it too! This is such a special book and I cannot wait to share it with you all very soon! You can purchase it pre-sale via the link in my bio #TinyDancerBIGworld #HarperCollins #findingfulfillment #Author."

And her friends, fans and followers were quick to show their support with Strictly dancer Katya Jones among the first to write: "Best things come in small packages. And you are one of those."

@allthingskps_ said: "OMG, this sounds exciting!" @gaylerinkoff commented: "So exciting. Thrilled for you." @marythewil replied: "Congratulations, look forward to reading." @x.strictlycaitlin.x posted: "Aw so excited lots of love." @ilovejanettex added: "Proudest of you forever and always. Can’t wait to get my copy very soon."