I'm a Ballerina!
#1 of 660 in Little Golden Books Series
What’s inside...
A charming exploration of the life of a young ballerina, as she gets ready for a big recital. The book offers a glimpse into the world of ballet, including the rehearsal process, the excitement of costume fittings, and the joy of performing. A little girl invites us into her ballet class, and later performs onstage (gulp!) in her first recital. Young readers will enjoy seeing what happens in a class, and young ballerinas will see themselves in this book.
Character compass
Little Girl
Discussion points
How did the story of the ballerina make you feel?
What do you think are the most important qualities of a ballerina?
If you were a ballerina, what kind of dance would you perform and why?
How do you think the ballerina prepares before a big show?
What did the ballerina learn about herself by the end of the book?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use expressive reading to convey the excitement and challenges the ballerina faces, enhancing the emotional connection to the story.
Encourage your child to imagine and describe their own ballet performance, fostering creativity and self-expression.
Discuss the discipline and practice required to excel in any skill, relating it to experiences in the child’s life.
After reading, watch a ballet performance together, either live or online, to bring the book's themes to life.
Explore the illustrations together, discussing how they add depth to the story and reflect the emotions of the characters.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Persistence pays off
Explanation: The main character practices tirelessly to perfect her ballet moves, demonstrating that hard work leads to improvement.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of consistent effort in achieving goals, whether in academics, sports, or other activities.
Example Lesson: Self-expression is important
Explanation: Through dance, the protagonist expresses her emotions and creativity, showcasing the importance of artistic expression.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to explore and express their own feelings through art, music, or writing.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: The ballerina works together with her peers during recitals and classes, illustrating how collaboration leads to success.
Real-World Application: Kids understand the importance of cooperating and respecting others’ contributions in group settings such as school projects or team sports.