FICTION

I Want to Be a Ballerina

by Anna MEMBRINO
illus. by Smiljana Coh. 32p. Random. 2014. lib. ed. $17.99. ISBN 9780375973307; Tr $14.99. ISBN 9780385378642; ebk. $9.99. ISBN 9780375982330. LC 2013018813.
COPY ISBN
PreS-K—Mia wants to be a ballerina just like her older sister. However, Mia soon learns that ballet takes quite a bit of work and practice. Among shades of a pinkish and purplish palette, Coh uses soft curving lines to enhance movement in tandem with the story. Mia's bulbous round head atop her tiny body conveys the awkward feeling that any beginner feels before starting the first ballet class. Facial features on both sisters are simple upturned curves to express pleasure at mastering a skill. While listening to the text being read aloud, children can enthusiastically chime in with Mia's "TA-DA!" phrase each time she accomplishes a task, such as pouring juice without spilling. The camaraderie between the siblings is touching. Beginning dancers will ask for repeat readings of this quiet tale.—Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA
Narrator Mia wants to be a ballerina like her older sister, who informs Mia that being a ballerina requires more than just a tutu: balance, coordination, delicacy--and lessons. Mixed-media collage illustrations with varied patterns and textures and saturated pastel hues (including ballet-slipper pink, of course) capture determined little Mia, her willowy big sis, and a diverse dance class of happy girls and boys.
Reviewed by Blair Christolon , Oct 01, 2014

Be the first reader to comment.

Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

BOOKS

Maddie and Mabel Ready for Snow
by Allen, Kari
BOOKS

Welcome to the Woofmore
by Gephart, Donna & Lori Haskins Houran
BOOKS

Eleven Houses
by Oakes, Colleen
BOOKS

Don’t Let the Forest In
by Drews, CG
BOOKS

Summer Nights and Meteorites
by Reynolds, Hannah
BOOKS

A Vile Season
by Ferraro, David
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?