I Dreamed I Was a Ballerina
What’s inside...
The story of a girl's first trip to the ballet and the dreams it inspired, leading her to become a legendary ballerina. Enhanced with paintings from Impressionist Edgar Degas, Anna Pavlova's story of becoming a ballerina and her passion toward the dance are expressed in this brilliantly illustrated picture book.
Age
7-10
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Anna Pavlova
Lyubov Pavlova
Discussion points
What did you feel when the girl imagined herself as a ballerina?
How do you think practicing every day helped the girl in the story?
Can you think of something you dream of doing and how you might achieve it?
Why do you think the girl in the book loved ballet so much?
How do you think the girl felt when she watched the ballet performance?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to relate the girl’s experiences to their own dreams and aspirations. Discuss the importance of practice and dedication in achieving goals. Highlight the emotional connection the girl felt towards ballet and ask your child about activities they feel passionate about. Use the book’s illustrations to spark discussions about art and personal expression.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Pursuing Dreams
Explanation: The story follows a young girl who dreams of being a ballerina, showcasing her passion and commitment.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of setting goals and working diligently towards achieving them, inspiring them to pursue their own aspirations.
Example Lesson: Appreciation for Art
Explanation: The narrative is intertwined with references to ballet performances and artistic expressions which highlight the beauty of the arts.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and appreciate various forms of artistic expression, cultivating a lifelong appreciation for the arts.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist faces challenges in her journey but remains determined, emphasizing the value of persistence.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the crucial life lesson of persevering despite difficulties, fostering resilience in their personal growth and learning.
Example Lesson: Imagination and Creativity
Explanation: Through dreaming of being a ballerina, the protagonist explores a wide range of creative scenarios.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to use their imagination freely, which is essential for creative thinking and problem-solving in real life.