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Top 10 Best Children’s Books About Dance: Perfect to Inspire Your Little Dancer
As a dance teacher and a mom, I’m always on the lookout for children’s books about dance that can inspire and educate my daughter as well as my students. There’s something magical about combining the art of storytelling with the beauty of dance. Books about dance can not only entertain but also teach valuable life lessons such as perseverance, dedication, and the joy of expressing oneself through movement. Whether it’s a story about a determined little dancer overcoming obstacles or a beautifully illustrated tale of a ballerina’s journey, these books about dance can spark a love for the art form in young readers. Here are my top 10 favorite children’s books about dance that are sure to inspire your little dancer.
1. Giraffes Can’t Dance by Giles Andreae
This heartwarming story is about Gerald the giraffe, who longs to dance but feels awkward and clumsy. With a little encouragement and some self-belief, Gerald discovers that he can dance beautifully. This is one of the most beloved children’s books about dance, teaching kids about self-confidence and finding their own rhythm.
2. Firebird by Misty Copeland
Written by the renowned ballerina Misty Copeland, Firebird is a stunningly illustrated book that tells the story of a young girl aspiring to be a dancer. Misty Copeland’s inspiring words encourage children to pursue their dreams with dedication and passion. It’s a personal favorite that I enjoy reading to my own 4-year-old daughter and one of the most empowering children’s books about dance.
3. Bunheads by Misty Copeland
Another gem by Misty Copeland, Bunheads is based on her own experiences as a young dancer. It follows a young girl named Misty who joins a ballet class and learns the importance of hard work, perseverance, and the joy of dancing. The beautiful illustrations and inspiring story make this a must-read children’s book about dance.
4. The ABC’s of Ballet by John Robert Allman
This delightful alphabet book introduces young readers to the world of ballet. Each letter of the alphabet is accompanied by a ballet term and an illustration, making it a fun and educational read for aspiring dancers. My daughter loves flipping through the pages and learning new ballet terms, making it one of our favorite children’s books about dance.
5. Dancing in the Wings by Debbie Allen
Written by the legendary Debbie Allen, this book tells the story of Sassy, a young girl with big dreams of becoming a ballerina. Despite facing obstacles, Sassy learns that being different can be her greatest strength. This story is perfect for teaching kids about resilience and self-acceptance, making it a standout among children’s books about dance.
6. Brontorina by James Howe
Brontorina is a dinosaur with a big dream of becoming a ballerina. Despite her size, she pursues her passion for dance with determination. This charming story highlights the importance of inclusivity and following your dreams, no matter the obstacles. It’s a delightful addition to the collection of children’s books about dance.
7. Tallulah’s Tutu by Marilyn Singer
Tallulah’s Tutu follows a little girl named Tallulah who is eager to earn her tutu in ballet class. Through patience and practice, she learns that hard work and dedication pay off. This book is a great way to teach young dancers about the rewards of perseverance, making it a valuable children’s book about dance.
8. Ella Bella Ballerina and the Sleeping Beauty by James Mayhew
This enchanting story follows Ella Bella, a young ballerina who gets whisked away into the magical world of Sleeping Beauty. The beautiful illustrations and captivating story make this book a delightful read for any young dancer who loves fairy tales and ballet. It’s one of the most magical children’s books about dance.
9. Angelina Ballerina by Katharine Holabird
Angelina Ballerina is a classic story about a little mouse who dreams of becoming a famous ballerina. With determination and hard work, Angelina learns valuable lessons about dedication and following her passion. This beloved book is a timeless favorite among children’s books about dance.
10. The Nutcracker Comes to America: How Three Ballet-loving Brothers Created a Holiday Tradition by Chris Barton
This book tells the true story of how the Nutcracker ballet became a beloved holiday tradition in America. It’s a fascinating read that combines history and dance, making it a perfect addition to any young dancer’s bookshelf. My daughter and I love reading this during the holiday season, making it a cherished children’s book about dance.
These children’s books about dance not only entertain but also inspire young dancers to pursue their dreams with passion and perseverance. I hope you find these recommendations as delightful and motivating as my daughter and I do. For more resources on dance, be sure to check out my other articles on how to choose the right dance studio and the ultimate list of dance essentials.
Discover all these wonderful books here: https://amzn.to/3yuRWBw
Happy reading and dancing!
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[…] Looking to expand your library with inspiring dance books for your little dancer? Check out this article: Top 10 Best Children’s Books About Dance. […]