Every Cowgirl Needs Dancing Boots

PreS-Gr 2—Nellie Sue is a cowgirl through and through. But she is a little lonely, so her mom suggests that she meet the three "glitter girls" who have just moved in across the street. When she tries, the two older sisters snub her, making it clear they would rather stick to their ballet. So Nellie Sue tries to welcome them by throwing a "barnyard bash" for the whole neighborhood. When there is a mishap on the dance floor, it is up to Anna, the youngest sister, to find a compromise between a country two-step and ballet. This is a strong story about how to be a friend and how friends meet in the middle. It is sure to appeal to girls who love pink (Nellie Sue is dressed in pink from her hat to her cowgirl boots), sparkly tutus, and accessories. Avril finds innovative ways to combine the ballet and cowgirl themes. Some text blocks are in the middle of a perfectly thrown lasso and clouds are shaped like horses. The illustrations have energy and movement, just like the children depicted.—Susan E. Murray, formerly at Glendale Public Library, AZ