With humor and a light touch, first-time children's author and Balanchine ballerina Allegra Kent celebrates the rewards of persistence and practice.
Every day from her pond in a city park, Sophie the swan watches the graceful dancers in Madam Myrtle's Dance Studio. One day, Sophie sneaks into class and, although Madam Myrtle won't let her stay, the swan finds her opening when substitute teacher Miss Willow allows her to participate.
Caldecott Medalist Emily Arnold McCully (Mirette on the High Wire) exploits the comic opportunities of a swan in ballet class. In Sophie's attempts at a series of pliés, she looks more pelican-like than prima ballerina, and Miss Willow tells Sophie "to work on your turnout" (i.e., her webbed feet placement). Like every dancer, Sophie discovers moves at which she excels (like the grand jeté) and others that need work. But Sophie proves her commitment by repeating the steps until she masters them all. Vignette illustrations emphasize her hard work, and an image of her with a pink iPod is priceless. Even Madam Myrtle softens up.
Sophie proves where there's a will, there's a way--especially if you're willing to put in some practice time. Every girl who has ever taken ballet class will recognize herself in these lively and lighthearted pen-and-ink and watercolor scenes, and those who haven't will find the humor in Sophie's plight. --Jennifer M. Brown, children's editor, Shelf Awareness