10+ Best Ballet Books for 12-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect ballet books for 12-year-olds? Whether your young reader is a budding ballerina or just loves a good story set in the world of pirouettes and pliés, we've got a collection that will keep them turning the pages. Dive into our curated lists of ballet books tailored specifically for 12-year-olds and discover stories that dance off the page. Keep reading to find the perfect match that will twirl them into a world of reading!

Fun Ballet Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfeild
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Classic, Coming-of-Age
  • Synopsis: This story revolves around three adopted sisters, Pauline, Petrova, and Posy, who train at the Children’s Academy of Dancing and Stage Training in London. Each sister follows a different path - acting, aviation, and ballet, respectively.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming tale that encourages pursuing one's passions and talents, while also highlighting the importance of family and support.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories about family, dreams, and determination.

• Dancing in the Wings by Debbie Allen, illustrated by Kadir Nelson
  • Genre(s): Children’s Literature, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Sassy is a tall young girl who loves dancing more than anything, but she struggles with self-doubt because of her height and big feet. The story follows her journey as she auditions for a summer dance festival.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story that promotes self-confidence and resilience, showing that personal challenges can be overcome with perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young dancers and anyone who struggles with self-acceptance.

• Tiny Pretty Things by Sona Charaipotra and Dhonielle Clayton
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Drama, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in the competitive world of an elite ballet academy, this novel follows three students—Gigi, Bette, and June—as they vie for the top spot in their school. The pressure mounts, leading to intense rivalries and dark secrets being uncovered.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping look into the pressures of competitive dance, making it a compelling read that also discusses important themes like racism, body image, and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy drama-filled stories with complex characters and a bit of mystery.

• The Painted Girls by Cathy Marie Buchanan
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In 1880s Paris, three sisters struggle to survive after their father's death. Marie, the youngest, becomes a ballet dancer at the Paris Opéra, and her life intersects with that of artist Edgar Degas.
  • Why we recommend this book: This novel beautifully blends art, history, and the gritty reality of life, providing a captivating and immersive experience.
  • Perfect for: Fans of historical fiction and stories that blend real-life art with compelling fictional narratives.

• Girl in Motion by Miriam Wenger-Landis
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Fiction
  • Synopsis: A young dancer, Anna, moves to New York to train at the prestigious School of Ballet. As she navigates the challenges of ballet school, she also must find her place in the world outside of dance.
  • Why we recommend this book: It realistically portrays the life of a young ballet student, addressing both the physical and emotional challenges faced in the pursuit of such a demanding discipline.
  • Perfect for: Young dancers or any young reader dealing with transitions and the challenges of growing up.

Educational Ballet Books for 12-Year-Olds

• A Dance of Sisters by Tracey Porter
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows two sisters, Delia and Pearl, who are connected yet deeply different. Delia is passionate about ballet and struggles to meet the demands of a prestigious dance school, while Pearl explores her own creative path.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of sibling dynamics, self-expression through art, resilience in pursuing personal goals
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully explores the themes of personal ambition, family relationships, and the pursuit of one's passion in the arts.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in stories about family dynamics and personal growth through the arts.

• To Dance: A Ballerina's Graphic Novel by Siena Cherson Siegel, illustrated by Mark Siegel
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Memoir
  • Synopsis: This autobiographical graphic novel recounts Siena Cherson Siegel's journey from a young girl dreaming of ballet in Puerto Rico to becoming a dancer with the New York City Ballet.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of ballet terminology and history, insight into the life of a professional dancer, visual literacy through graphic novel format
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a visually engaging and deeply personal look into the world of ballet, making it accessible and inspiring for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young dancers and those who appreciate stories told through a combination of text and art.

• Bunheads by Sophie Flack
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Fiction
  • Synopsis: The novel follows the life of Hannah Ward, a 19-year-old dancer in one of Manhattan's most esteemed ballet companies, as she navigates the demanding life of a professional ballet dancer and the personal sacrifices it entails.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Insight into the professional dance world, understanding of work-life balance, emotional resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a realistic and captivating glimpse into the competitive world of ballet, highlighting both its beauty and its challenges.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring dancers and those who love behind-the-scenes looks at the performing arts.

• Up in the Air by Ann Marie Meyers
  • Genre(s): Middle Grade, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Melanie, a young aspiring ballerina, discovers a magical world where she must use her dance skills to navigate various challenges and learn important life lessons.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creative problem solving, the importance of perseverance, imaginative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It creatively combines elements of fantasy with the discipline of ballet, offering an engaging and motivational story for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fantasy and stories where characters overcome obstacles through skill and determination.

Challenging Ballet Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The Walls Around Us by Nova Ren Suma
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Supernatural, Mystery
  • Synopsis: This novel intertwines the lives of two imprisoned teenage girls and a talented ballerina, exploring themes of freedom, guilt, and the supernatural.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure is complex, featuring non-linear storytelling and multiple perspectives that delve into psychological and supernatural themes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique blend of ballet, mystery, and a ghostly twist that keeps readers engaged while challenging them to think deeply about justice and redemption.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy psychological thrillers and supernatural elements mixed with the arts.

• Various Positions by Martha Schabas
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Following fourteen-year-old Georgia as she enters a prestigious ballet school, this novel explores her intense desire to succeed and the psychological and physical pressures she faces.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with mature themes such as body image and personal identity, presenting them through a sophisticated narrative that challenges young readers to think critically about complex issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book provides a realistic look into the ballet world, encouraging readers to consider the sacrifices required for art and the importance of self-awareness.
  • Perfect for: Mature young readers interested in a serious, thought-provoking look at the world of professional ballet.

• Second Position by Katherine Locke
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Romance, Drama
  • Synopsis: After a devastating accident, Aly and Zed must find their way back to each other and to the dance they love, navigating the challenges of recovery and mental health.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book addresses heavy themes such as trauma, recovery, and mental health with an emotional depth that requires mature comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a poignant story of resilience and recovery, showing how passion for art can aid in healing physical and emotional wounds.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate stories of overcoming adversity and the healing power of the arts.

• A Time for Dancing by Davida Wills Hurwin
  • Genre(s): Young Adult, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Best friends Samantha and Juliana are inseparable until Juliana is diagnosed with cancer, which tests their friendship and their dreams of becoming dancers.
  • Why this book is challenging: The themes of illness, loss, and mortality are explored with emotional intensity, challenging readers to confront difficult realities.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book offers a touching exploration of friendship and the ways we cope with life's hardest challenges, providing a moving and inspirational story.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a deep, emotional story about friendship and the power of dreams.

• Girl Through Glass by Sari Wilson
  • Genre(s): Adult Fiction, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This dual narrative follows Mira, a young ballerina in the 1970s, and Kate, a dance professor in present day, as their stories connect through the world of ballet.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features a complex narrative that spans different time periods and includes adult themes and historical context that require advanced reading skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully captures the beauty and rigor of ballet while offering a compelling mystery that spans decades.
  • Perfect for: Older readers who enjoy historical narratives and complex, interwoven storylines.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of ballet through books and you're around 12 years old, cultivating good reading habits can make your experience even more enriching. Here are some exercises designed to enhance your reading routine, making each page turn as exciting as a ballet twirl!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Keeps you motivated and on track with your reading.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Dedicated Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific spot at home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and enhances focus.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Use a Dictionary
  • What it is: Keep a dictionary handy to look up unfamiliar words.
  • How it helps: Improves vocabulary and comprehension of the book.
  • Tips: Write down the new words you learn for later review.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings and thoughts the book evokes in you.

• Take Breaks
  • What it is: Allow yourself short breaks after a certain period of reading.
  • How it helps: Keeps your mind fresh and prevents fatigue.
  • Tips: Use breaks to stretch or walk around a bit before returning to reading.

• Read Aloud
  • What it is: Read the book out loud to yourself or to others.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and can make reading more engaging.
  • Tips: Change your tone and pace to match the narrative, making it more fun.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine can really transform your experience with ballet books, making every session as graceful and fluid as ballet itself. So, grab your book, find your cozy corner, and let the world of ballet literature sweep you off your feet! Happy reading!