Ballet Kids

Open this charming book to endpapers covered in twelve different ballet positions, demonstrated by small children, delight stitched upon each of their faces. The magical pictures enhance every page, the author/illustrator obviously enjoying augmenting the text. Through twirling snowflakes we see Thomas, who wants to be a ballet kid, set off for the ballet school with this Mum. The little boys and girls struggle into their ballet shoes and then are ready, seated in a circle with Mr Elliot, the teacher. Stretching, marching, jumping, they limber up with obvious pleasure until it is time to choose their outfits for their Winter Show. They are to perform The Nutcracker! There are toy soldiers, fluffy white mice, and Clara in a floaty white dress. But what costume does Thomas find? ‘Purple as a plum, covered in sparkly sequins,’ it is the most wonderful costume he has ever seen. ‘You’re the Sugar Plum Fairy, Thomas,’ calls Mr Elliot. As the music begins, Thomas prances and leaps and whirls and twirls, caught up in the moment, as are all the little dancers. Before leaving the rehearsal, Thomas voices his worries as he has never before been in a show. Mr Elliot reassures him, ‘Just listen and move with the music, Thomas. The magic will come from within.’ And it is indeed a wonderful show. The illustrations glow with the enthusiasm that these very small children bring to the story, expressing the joyful spirit generated by their movement with the music. All dancers of all ages will surely tap their toes and join in the pirouettes and the arabesques as Thomas and his friends strut their stuff.