Starring Prima!: The Mouse of the Ballet Jolie
not part of a series
What’s inside...
In the old grand piano at the Ballet Jolie in New York City lives a ballet dancer who just happens to be a mouse. From the day she was born, Prima was destined for greatness and was expected to become the lead dancer with the American Ballet Rodente. However, Prima has even bigger plans and wants to share her talent with all creatures, including humans, despite warnings from her mouse community. She prepares for her first big performance in front of an audience of human beings.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
8-10
Length
160 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Prima
Discussion points
How did Prima's persistence help her overcome challenges in the story?
What lessons can we learn about teamwork from the characters at the Ballet Jolie?
Why do you think it was important for Prima to keep practicing, even when things got tough?
How did Prima's friends support her dream? Can you think of ways we support each other's dreams?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think about how perseverance and support play key roles in achieving goals, mirroring Prima's journey. Use examples from the book to draw parallels to real-life situations, fostering a deeper understanding. Additionally, highlight the importance of hard work and kindness, grounding the discussion in positive values.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Prima, the mouse, demonstrates perseverance as she overcomes several challenges to achieve her dream of dancing.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist through difficulties they face in school or in learning new skills.
Example Lesson: Confidence
Explanation: Throughout the book, Prima gradually builds her confidence, which helps her excel in ballet.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of believing in themselves, whether that's during presentations in class or in making new friends.
Example Lesson: Teamwork
Explanation: Prima learns to collaborate with other ballet dancers for a successful performance.
Real-World Application: Emphasizes the value of working together with others which can be applied in group projects or family activities.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: Prima shows understanding and compassion to her peers who struggle or feel left out.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson in their interactions with siblings or classmates, fostering a supportive social environment.
Example Lesson: Dedication
Explanation: Prima's constant practice and dedication to ballet highlight the rewards of hard work.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to dedicate themselves to their studies or hobbies to see improvements.