Tiger in a Tutu

Any aspiring ballerina… or dreamer… will love this story of a tiger with what seems an impossible dream. Dreams take so many forms. And this tiger spends days outside the ballet school in gai Paris, learning about pirouettes, grand jetes, plies and pas de chat. With the music in his heart, he then pirouettes through the streets of Paris and across the Seine, to the horror of all passers by. Poor Max, he knows he needs an audience, to applaud and admire his grace and skill. Yet his antics make people run for cover. All but a small ballerina called Celeste, who befriends him, recognising his passion. Backstage, Celeste kits out Max in a perfect pair of ballet shoes… and a tiger-sized tutu. Excitedly, Max leaps onto the stage. Here is the moment to shine! STAMPEDE! The terrified audience bolt for the exits. Unabashed, Celeste encourages Max to dance, just with her. This they do, centre stage, finishing with a beautiful curtesy. Loud applause and hurrahs greet the astonished  pair, for the stampede has stopped and turned, and here is Tiger’s appreciating audience, with cries of ‘Encore! J’adore le tigre!’

This uplifting tale of following a dream and pursuing a talent is skilfully told, and the illustrations have a glorious French feel to them. Look out for the fleeing orchestra, the moustachioed musician carrying his grand piano high above his head amongst the scrambling orchestra! Perfect telling of a tale through words and pictures.