The Best Book of Ballet
on Goodreads (68)
What’s inside...
This book offers a behind-the-scenes look at ballet, showing aspiring dancers the elegant world of dance. It takes readers from ballet school to learn basic steps and techniques, to the stage where they'll learn how a performance is created. The book provides an overview of ballet history, displays costumes and make-up, and reveals the busy lives of professional dancers. It includes detailed text, step-by-step illustrations, and features an illustrated glossary and index for young readers developing their reference skills.
Discussion points
What did you like the most about the ballet positions shown in the book?
How do you think the dancers feel when they are performing on stage?
Can you describe the story told by the ballet in the book? What do you think is the main message?
Which ballet character would you like to be, and why?
How does the art and pictures in the book help you understand ballet better?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the ballet performances depicted in the book.
Discuss the discipline and practice required in ballet, relating it to any activities or hobbies your child is involved in.
Use the illustrations in the book as a visual aid to discuss different ballet positions and their names.
If possible, watch a ballet performance together, either live or recorded, to enhance the connection with the book.
Ask your child to narrate a small story using ballet terms from the book, promoting both creative thinking and retention of new vocabulary.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Discipline and Dedication
Explanation: The book illustrates the rigorous training and practice that ballet dancers undergo, emphasizing the importance of discipline and dedication.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the value of hard work and perseverance, applying these principles to their academic and extracurricular activities.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and Collaboration
Explanation: The story highlights the interactions between dancers during rehearsals and performances, showing how collaboration leads to success.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by working cooperatively in group projects at school or in team sports.
Example Lesson: Appreciation of Arts and Culture
Explanation: Through the exploration of ballet's history and its various styles, the book fosters a deep appreciation for this art form and cultural expression.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to explore and appreciate diverse forms of art and culture, enhancing their cultural literacy and empathy.
Example Lesson: Physical Fitness and Health
Explanation: The book presents ballet as a form of physical exercise that promotes strength, flexibility, and overall health.
Real-World Application: Kids can be motivated to engage in physical activities and understand the health benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle.
Example Lesson: Expression and Confidence
Explanation: Through learning ballet, characters in the book gain confidence and find unique ways to express themselves.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to find their own means of self-expression and build self-confidence through arts and communication.