10+ Best Ballerina Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect ballerina books for 10-year-olds? Whether your young reader is a budding dancer or just loves a good story with grace and poise, you've come to the right place. Dive into our curated selection of enchanting reads that capture the magical world of ballet. Keep reading to discover our various lists of ballerina books that are sure to keep your young dancer twirling through the pages!

Fun Ballerina Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Tallulah's Tutu by Marilyn Singer, illustrated by Alexandra Boiger
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Dance
  • Synopsis: Tallulah is determined to earn a tutu through her ballet classes. However, she learns that it takes more than just wanting something to achieve it.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches perseverance and the value of hard work in a fun and relatable way. The illustrations are captivating, enhancing the storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Young dancers and any child learning about patience and dedication.

• Dancing in the Wings by Debbie Allen, illustrated by Kadir Nelson
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Dance
  • Synopsis: Sassy is a tall young dancer who struggles with self-confidence because of her size. Through a series of events in a summer dance festival, she learns to appreciate her unique qualities.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's uplifting and promotes self-acceptance and courage. The dynamic illustrations complement the powerful message.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are learning to embrace their individuality and those interested in performing arts.

• Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfeild
  • Genre(s): Classic, Dance, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the lives of three orphaned sisters, Pauline, Petrova, and Posy, who are adopted by an eccentric explorer. They enroll in a dance and stage school to train and help support their new family.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a timeless story that inspires readers to discover and follow their passions, regardless of the challenges they face.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young artists and performers, and anyone who loves a heartwarming story of sisterhood and ambition.

• The Very Fairy Princess: Here Comes the Flower Girl! by Julie Andrews and Emma Walton Hamilton, illustrated by Christine Davenier
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Gerry, a self-proclaimed fairy princess, is thrilled to be a flower girl in a wedding and is determined to bring her own special sparkle to the role.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's playful and imaginative, encouraging creativity and self-expression in everyday life.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love fantasy and dream of being a princess or a dancer.

• Miss Lina's Ballerinas by Grace Maccarone, illustrated by Christine Davenier
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Dance
  • Synopsis: Miss Lina's class of eight ballerinas learns to dance in pairs, creating a new dynamic and learning about teamwork and friendship in the process.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines charming rhymes with lovely illustrations, making it a delightful read that teaches the value of cooperation.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy rhythmic, poetic storytelling and those interested in dance and teamwork.

Educational Ballerina Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Bravo, Tanya by Patricia Lee Gauch, illustrated by Satomi Ichikawa
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Dance
  • Synopsis: Tanya, a passionate young ballerina, struggles to master a challenging dance move, but with persistence and encouragement, she finally succeeds.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Perseverance, problem-solving, dance technique
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully illustrates the importance of resilience and hard work in achieving goals, making it relatable and inspiring for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young dancers facing their own challenges and any child who needs a boost of motivation.

• A Dance of Sisters by Tracey Porter
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Dance, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Delia Ferri and her older sister, Pearl, navigate the complexities of growing up and the intense world of dance as they deal with their personal struggles.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Emotional intelligence, sibling relationships, self-expression through art
  • Why we recommend this book: It dives deep into the emotional landscapes of young dancers and the pressures they face, offering a poignant look at the world of ballet through a more mature lens.
  • Perfect for: Older children who appreciate a more complex narrative and those interested in the emotional aspects of dance.

• Lili at Ballet by Rachel Isadora
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Dance
  • Synopsis: Lili loves ballet and this book follows her as she attends ballet class, practicing and performing with her friends.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of ballet terminology, teamwork, discipline in arts
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a realistic glimpse into the life of a young ballet student, emphasizing the joy and discipline of dance.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are curious about what happens in a ballet class and those who are aspiring dancers themselves.

• The Ballet Book by Darcey Bussell
  • Genre(s): Nonfiction, Dance Instruction
  • Synopsis: Former Royal Ballet principal dancer Darcey Bussell introduces young readers to the basics of ballet, from techniques to history.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Ballet technique, dance history, physical fitness
  • Why we recommend this book: It's educational and engaging, authored by a renowned ballet dancer, which adds authenticity and inspiration.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring ballerinas and dancers interested in learning more about the fundamentals of ballet from an expert.

• To Dance: A Ballerina’s Graphic Novel by Siena Cherson Siegel, illustrated by Mark Siegel
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Memoir, Dance
  • Synopsis: This autobiographical graphic novel explores Siena Cherson Siegel's journey from a young dance student in Puerto Rico to a professional ballerina.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, artistic expression through graphic storytelling, understanding of a dancer's dedication
  • Why we recommend this book: The graphic novel format makes the story accessible and visually engaging, offering a unique perspective on the life of a dancer.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy visual storytelling and those interested in the real-life challenges and triumphs of a ballerina.

Challenging Ballerina Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Painted Girls by Cathy Marie Buchanan
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Drama
  • Synopsis: Set in late 19th-century Paris, this novel follows the van Goethem sisters who struggle with poverty and seek solace in the Paris Opéra, where they train as ballet dancers. The youngest sister, Marie, becomes the model for Edgar Degas’s famous sculpture, "Little Dancer Aged Fourteen."
  • Why this book is challenging: The book deals with complex themes such as poverty, the exploitation of young dancers, and the intersection of art and life, presented through rich, historical context and sophisticated narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping, emotionally resonant story that also educates readers about a significant time in art and dance history.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in historical fiction and the darker, more complex side of the ballet world.

• Girl in Motion by Miriam Wenger-Landis
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Fiction
  • Synopsis: A young dancer, Anna, moves from her small town to New York City to attend the prestigious School of American Ballet. As she navigates the pressures of ballet, adolescence, and city life, Anna must find her own path to success.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents a realistic and sometimes raw look at the life of a competitive ballet dancer, including the physical and emotional challenges they face.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book provides a behind-the-scenes look at the dedication required in ballet, offering a narrative that is both enlightening and inspiring.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring dancers and anyone interested in a story of perseverance and personal growth.

• Taking Flight: From War Orphan to Star Ballerina by Michaela DePrince and Elaine DePrince
  • Genre(s): Biography, Nonfiction
  • Synopsis: This autobiography details the incredible journey of Michaela DePrince from an orphan in war-torn Sierra Leone to a world-renowned ballet dancer. It highlights her adoption, move to the United States, and her rise in the ballet world despite numerous obstacles.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book tackles heavy themes such as war, loss, and racism, requiring readers to confront complex global issues and personal adversity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a powerful and uplifting story of resilience and hope, demonstrating that with determination, one can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are inspired by real-life success stories and those interested in ballet and overcoming adversity.

• Dancing Through It: My Journey in the Ballet by Jenifer Ringer
  • Genre(s): Memoir, Nonfiction
  • Synopsis: Former New York City Ballet principal dancer Jenifer Ringer shares her experiences with the pressures of the ballet world, her struggles with body image and faith, and her ultimate journey of self-acceptance and success.
  • Why this book is challenging: The memoir provides an honest, introspective look at the personal and professional challenges faced by ballet dancers, including dealing with criticism and personal insecurities.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a candid and thoughtful perspective on personal growth and the realities of professional ballet, encouraging readers to find their own path to happiness and fulfillment.
  • Perfect for: Anyone looking for a story about overcoming personal struggles and finding strength in one’s passions and beliefs.

• Up in the Air by Kathryn Lasky
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In 1920s Boston, a young girl named Rachel dreams of becoming a ballerina. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes involved in the air races. This novel explores her journey through both the worlds of dance and aviation.
  • Why this book is challenging: It blends historical events with fictional elements, requiring readers to understand the broader historical context while engaging with the protagonist’s personal aspirations and challenges.
  • Why we recommend this book: This novel encourages readers to explore unconventional paths and demonstrates how diverse interests can lead to a fulfilling life.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories of adventure and those fascinated by both the arts and early aviation.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the graceful world of ballerina books, why not enhance your reading experience with some fun exercises? These activities are designed to help 10-year-olds develop strong reading habits while enjoying their favorite ballet stories. Let's twirl through these exercises together!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how many pages or chapters you want to read each day.
  • How it helps: Helps create a consistent reading habit and a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Choose a realistic goal that fits into your daily schedule.

• Create a Ballet-Themed Reading Space
  • What it is: Decorate a corner of your room with ballet-themed items where you can read.
  • How it helps: Makes reading time special and exciting, enhancing focus and enjoyment.
  • Tips: Include comfy cushions, posters of ballet dancers, and a small shelf for your ballet books.

• Ballet Book Club
  • What it is: Start a book club with friends who love ballet and books.
  • How it helps: Encourages discussion and deeper understanding of the stories.
  • Tips: Meet once a week to discuss a chapter or a book and maybe include some dance time!

• Act Out Scenes
  • What it is: Choose your favorite scenes from the ballet books and act them out.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and retention of the story.
  • Tips: Use costumes or props to make the enactment more fun and realistic.

• Draw Your Favorite Scene
  • What it is: Sketch or color a scene from the book you're currently reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances visual memory and helps you connect more deeply with the story.
  • Tips: Display your artwork near your reading space for inspiration.

• Write a Book Review
  • What it is: After finishing a book, write a short review of what you liked and didn't like.
  • How it helps: Helps with critical thinking and expressing your thoughts clearly.
  • Tips: Share your reviews with friends or family, or even post them online if you have a blog.

These exercises are not just about reading; they're about making reading a dynamic and engaging part of your daily life. Whether you're setting up a cozy reading nook or acting out your favorite ballet scenes, each activity is a step towards becoming a more thoughtful and enthusiastic reader. So, lace up your ballet slippers and get ready for a wonderful reading adventure!