Ballet Dance

Children's Literature - Barbara L. Talcroft

Dance is an appealing topic for pre- and early teens. Who doesn't want to make those fabulous moves? This set of "Snap" books explores six forms of movement popular with kids (modern dance being conspicuously absent). In four or five chapters and conversational prose, each volume tells a bit about the genre's history, shows vital steps and moves, and spotlights a successful performer (in this case, corps dancer Misty Copeland of the American Ballet Theatre). Heavy on recommending individuality and confidence, the authors also stress taking classes and lots of practice. Ballet, of course, cannot be learned from a book. The oldest and most disciplined of all the forms, ballet must be started early and pursued with diligence and dedication. To her credit, Graves focuses on classroom work, showing turnout, the basic foot and arm positions, the arabesque, and traditional steps like the pirouette and the grand jete. Except for a few partners, though, boys and men are not pictured; readers might get the mistaken impression that men do not actually dance. Girls are encouraged to "be determined, stay focused, and of course, keep practicing," with the goal of being accepted into a ballet company and perhaps becoming a ballerina (a rare occurrence). Color photographs include a Kitri leaping in a production of Don Quixote (not attributed) and a scene from some company's Nutcracker. A friendly format, lots of color, and encouraging words will attract middle readers—just so they do not forget the endless practice and grueling work behind the dreams. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft