Dogs Don't Do Ballet
What’s inside...
Meet Biff, an adorable little puppy with a big personality and even bigger dreams of becoming a ballet dancer. Unlike other dogs, Biff doesn't indulge in typical dog activities like weeing on lampposts, scratching fleas, or drinking out of the toilet. Instead, he is enamored by moonlight, music, and walking on his tiptoes, believing he is a ballerina. This feel-good book, celebrating ten years of its publication, takes readers on a delightful journey of Biff's determination and self-discovery.
Age
4-8
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Biff
Little Girl
Discussion points
Why do you think Biff believes he can be a ballet dancer even though he’s a dog?
How do the other characters react to Biff's dream of dancing ballet? What does this tell us about following our own dreams?
What are some of the ways Biff shows that he’s different from other dogs? How does it make you feel?
How does the story end, and what do you think it teaches us about being true to ourselves?
If you were Biff, would you also pursue ballet dancing? Why or why not?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their own dreams and discuss the steps they might take to achieve them, akin to Biff's determination.
Discuss the themes of individuality and self-expression found in the book, and relate them to your child’s experiences at school or with friends.
Highlight the reactions of other characters to Biff's ballet dancing and talk about the importance of support and encouragement from others.
Ask your child how they feel about Biff's journey and if they have ever felt different or misunderstood, ensuring to empathize and offer reassurance.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Follow your dreams despite obstacles
Explanation: The protagonist, a dog named Biff, dreams of becoming a ballet dancer even though it's not typical for dogs. Biff's persistence in pursuing his passion, despite being told he can't, illustrates determination.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to pursue their own interests and passions, even if they seem unconventional or challenging to others.
Example Lesson: Challenge stereotypes
Explanation: Biff challenges the traditional notion that only certain beings can be ballet dancers. His courage in defying stereotypes teaches children the value of individuality and self-expression.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand that they should feel confident to express themselves and not be confined by societal expectations.
Example Lesson: Empathy and support
Explanation: Biff receives support from the little girl, demonstrating the importance of being kind and supportive of others' dreams and aspirations.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be supportive friends and recognize the importance of empathy in uplifting others around them.
Example Lesson: Resilience in the face of failure
Explanation: Despite initial ridicule and setbacks, Biff does not give up on his dream. This resiliency is a crucial lesson for young readers.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of persistence and resilience, understanding that setbacks are a part of any journey and can be overcome with determination.