Ballet Stories
Red hot reads Series
What’s inside...
This selection covers all aspects of a ballet dancer's life from the trauma of auditions through the agonies of training and rehearsals to the glory of live performance, set against a backdrop of friendship, rivalry, disappointment, and success. Additionally, this collection of eight favorite ballet stories, including 'Giselle,' 'The Firebird,' 'Ondine,' 'The Nutcracker,' 'Swan Lake,' 'Petrushka,' 'Sleeping Beauty,' and 'Coppelia,' enchants and opens a world of magic. These timeless stories and sparkling illustrations will delight readers for years. The selection also includes tales of a late audition, an alright performance, and a special gift for Sophie, providing hours of reading fun and becoming a favorite for every girl who loves ballet.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-8
Length
72 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What emotions did you feel when you read about the ballet performances? Can you describe why?
Which character did you relate to most in the ballet stories and what would you have done in their shoes?
How do you think practicing ballet impacted the characters’ lives? Do you think learning something new can change us?
What does dedication mean in the context of these stories? Can you think of a time when you were dedicated to something?
If you could create your own ballet story, what would it be about? Who would be the main characters?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the stories by using open-ended questions that prompt deeper thinking.
Relate the themes of dedication and practice in the book to your child’s personal experiences with learning or hobbies to make the discussion more relevant and engaging.
Discuss the various emotions characters experience in the stories, prompting your child to explore and express their own emotions.
After reading, participate in a creative activity together such as drawing scenes from the book or imagining a new ballet story, which can help reinforce themes and deepen understanding.
Suggest re-reading favorite parts of the book together and discuss any new insights or feelings that arise with each reading.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance and dedication
Explanation: Through the stories of young dancers facing various challenges, 'Ballet Stories' showcases the importance of persevering and staying dedicated to reach one's goals.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by staying committed to their tasks, whether it is completing homework, practicing a sport, or learning a musical instrument.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: The book highlights interactions between characters in different emotional states, teaching children how to empathize with others' feelings and perspectives.
Real-World Application: This can help children in managing friendships and understanding family members' emotions, fostering healthier relationships.
Example Lesson: Teamwork and collaboration
Explanation: As the characters in 'Ballet Stories' work together to perform ballets, the importance of working in a team and valuing each member's contribution is illustrated.
Real-World Application: This lesson can be applied in group projects at school or team sports, where cooperation is essential for success.
Example Lesson: Discipline and time management
Explanation: The dancers' rigorous training schedules emphasize the importance of discipline and effective time management.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to organize their time better, balancing schoolwork, play, and rest effectively.
Example Lesson: Expression and creativity
Explanation: Through ballet, characters express their emotions and stories, teaching children the power of artistic expression.
Real-World Application: Kids can be encouraged to explore their own creative outlets like drawing, writing, or dancing to express themselves.