Picture Book Review: Bella Ballerina

“Bella Ballerina” by author Sharon Draper is a delightful and inspiring picture book that will entertain young readers and have them eager to put on their ballet slippers to learn the new steps themselves. Releasing on October 15, 2024, this book marks Draper’s debut in the picture book genre, and it beautifully illustrates themes of overcoming fear, discovering joy, and the power of perseverance and friendship within the ballet world.

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The story follows Bella, a young girl who dreams of becoming a ballerina. Draper’s narrative is paired with the inclusive illustrations of Ebony Glenn, featuring dancers of all shapes and shades, and notably includes a boy as one of the lead dancers in Bella’s class. This portrayal serves as an empowering reminder that ballet is for everyone, not just girls.

Inspired by Draper’s own experiences—her daughter owns a dance studio and her granddaughter inspired the story—”Bella Ballerina” is deeply personal. Draper herself is a ballroom dancer, bringing authenticity to the book’s depiction of the joys and challenges of dancing.

The illustrations in “Bella Ballerina” are sweet and beautiful, showing the cute characters in all kinds of different ballet steps and also showing how the characters are still young as one dancer gets comfort from their teacher by cuddling on her lap. The illustrations complement the story perfectly, making it visually interesting and enjoyable for young or beginning readers.

According to Simon & Schuster’s press release, Draper’s motivation for creating this book was to share the joy of a child discovering their passion and working hard to make it magical for others. With over 5 million copies of her previous books sold, Draper has already touched the hearts of many readers. “Bella Ballerina” continues this tradition, offering a story that is both empowering and enchanting, perfect for young children who are beginning to explore their interests and dreams.

Overall, “Bella Ballerina” is a must-read book for any child’s collection. It’s a heartwarming and inspiring tale that encourages children to pursue their passions and embrace the joy of discovering new dance skills.

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