John's Turn

Every Friday at John’s school there is a special assembly where children take turns to ‘share gifts’ – this involves doing a performance of some kind. There have been musical performances, magic tricks and jokes.  The story begins with John waiting for his turn to perform, and he is very nervous. As he changes his clothes, we can see John’s performance is going to be something different, he is preparing to show his skill at ballet dancing. The audience is underwhelmed as his music starts – the classical orchestral music is not what they are used to. However, as John’s performance begins the audience become captivated. We see John visibly transform as he dances too, his nerves disappear, he becomes more and more confident – he is lost in the music and the well-rehearsed, familiar movements which become more and more spectacular. His skill is impressive.

The illustrations and page design are wonderful. They convey movement brilliantly with John’s initial ballet positions developing into an explosion of exuberant pirouettes and twirls followed by a triumphant final leap. The audience leap to their feet to show their delight.

Challenging stereotypical assumptions that ballet is not an activity for boys, this is a simple, appealing and powerful book about having the confidence to be yourself and share your passions.