FICTION

I Want to Be a Ballerina

by Anna MEMBRINO
illus. by Smiljana Coh. 32p. Random. 2014. lib. ed. $17.99. ISBN 9780375973307; Tr $14.99. ISBN 9780385378642; ebk. $9.99. ISBN 9780375982330. LC 2013018813.
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PreS-K—Mia wants to be a ballerina just like her older sister. However, Mia soon learns that ballet takes quite a bit of work and practice. Among shades of a pinkish and purplish palette, Coh uses soft curving lines to enhance movement in tandem with the story. Mia's bulbous round head atop her tiny body conveys the awkward feeling that any beginner feels before starting the first ballet class. Facial features on both sisters are simple upturned curves to express pleasure at mastering a skill. While listening to the text being read aloud, children can enthusiastically chime in with Mia's "TA-DA!" phrase each time she accomplishes a task, such as pouring juice without spilling. The camaraderie between the siblings is touching. Beginning dancers will ask for repeat readings of this quiet tale.—Blair Christolon, Prince William Public Library System, Manassas, VA
Narrator Mia wants to be a ballerina like her older sister, who informs Mia that being a ballerina requires more than just a tutu: balance, coordination, delicacy--and lessons. Mixed-media collage illustrations with varied patterns and textures and saturated pastel hues (including ballet-slipper pink, of course) capture determined little Mia, her willowy big sis, and a diverse dance class of happy girls and boys.
Reviewed by Blair Christolon , Oct 01, 2014

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