Ballerina Dreams: a true story by Lauren Thompson

Title: Ballerina Dreams: a true story
Author/Photographer: Lauren Thompson/ James Estrin
Genre: Biography
Award: Bank Street Flora Stieglitz Award (2008)
Age: 4-8

This book is about five little girls' journey to become ballerinas, and it wasn't an easy journey for them because they had cerebral palsy or other muscle disorders. These girls had worked hard all year long and were finally getting to perform in their own recital. They did everything a normal child could, with the help of their helpers as needed. Leading up to the recital these girl worked harder, and practiced until they couldn't anymore. When it was time for the show their helpers helped them get ready for their first performance which was the Nutcracker, then after that they performed Swan Lake, and their finale was Wish upon a Star. During the finale each girl had a star and boldly said their name and they swayed and turn and the music ended with them being the stars of the night. Their teacher Joann was so proud of them and all their hard work, and once they finished their performance they were each given a rose. At the end of the book is gave a little information about each of the five highlighted ballerinas. There was also information about the teacher and her helpers.

I really enjoyed the actual pictures from the actual recital and we see the girls practicing and their genuine excitement as they get to perform. I absolutely loved this book and think it helps students understand other difficulties someone might face. This book would best suit students in Preschool-2nd grade. If I did include it in a lesson, I would talk about how they had courage and determination and had a goal and they reached their goal.
- Peace. Love. Giraffes.

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