10+ Best Ballet Books for 7-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect ballet books for 7-year-olds? Whether your little one is a budding ballerina or just loves a good story with a sprinkle of pirouettes, you’ve come to the right place. Dive into our curated lists of enchanting reads that will twirl them into the magical world of ballet. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are sure to keep your young dancer on their toes!

Fun Ballet Books for 7-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, but 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, which are great lessons for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young dancers and anyone who appreciates a story about dedication and patience.

• Miss Lina's Ballerinas by Grace Maccarone, illustrated by Christine Davenier
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Rhyming
  • Synopsis: In this charming rhyming book, Miss Lina's eight ballerinas learn to dance in pairs, creating a delightful and harmonious performance.
  • Why we recommend this book: The rhythmic text and lively illustrations make it a fun read that also introduces basic ballet positions and the importance of teamwork.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy stories with rhythm and those interested in ballet.

• Dogs Don't Do Ballet by Anna Kemp, illustrated by Sara Ogilvie
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Humor
  • Synopsis: Biff is not like ordinary dogs. He thinks he's a ballerina, which leads to all sorts of funny situations!
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous and uplifting story that encourages kids to follow their dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love animals and laughter, and those who need a reminder to embrace their unique interests.

• Ballet Shoes by Noel Streatfeild
  • Genre(s): Classic, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This classic tale follows the lives of three adopted sisters who go to a performing arts school and discover their own talents and passions in life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's inspirational, showing how determination and hard work can lead to success, and it also highlights the importance of finding one's passion.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young performers and readers who enjoy stories about family and personal growth.

• Angelina Ballerina by Katharine Holabird, illustrated by Helen Craig
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: Angelina loves to dance and dreams of becoming a prima ballerina, but she often gets distracted and has to learn how to balance her life and her passion.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a delightful and motivating story for young readers that combines the joys and challenges of growing up with a love for dance.
  • Perfect for: Young dancers and any child who dreams big and loves charming, whimsical stories.

Educational Ballet Books for 7-Year-Olds

• The Only Boy in Ballet Class by Denise Gruska, illustrated by Amy Wummer
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Empowerment
  • Synopsis: Tucker Dohr loves ballet, but he's the only boy in his ballet class, which leads to teasing from his peers. Despite the challenges, Tucker shows everyone that ballet is for everyone and that true talent shines through.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-confidence, acceptance, gender norms
  • Why we recommend this book: It addresses gender stereotypes and encourages children to pursue their passions regardless of societal expectations.
  • Perfect for: Children who feel out of place and need encouragement to follow their passions.

• Brontorina by James Howe, illustrated by Randy Cecil
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Brontorina is a dinosaur with a dream to dance ballet, but she is too big for the dance studio. Her determination leads to an unexpected solution that makes her dreams possible.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, problem-solving, inclusivity
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heartwarming story that teaches children about inclusion and adapting to make everyone feel welcome.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy imaginative stories and learning about acceptance and adaptation.

• Vampirina Ballerina by Anne Marie Pace, illustrated by LeUyen Pham
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fantasy, Humor
  • Synopsis: A young vampire girl, who dreams of becoming a ballerina, faces unique challenges but learns how to dance gracefully and confidently, even if she's a little different from her classmates.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-expression, perseverance, embracing differences
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor with a message of acceptance and the importance of following your dreams, no matter how unique they are.
  • Perfect for: Kids who feel different and anyone who loves a fun twist on typical ballet stories.

• Lili at Ballet by Rachel Isadora
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: Lili loves ballet and this book follows her experiences at ballet class, from warming up to performing in a recital, showing the hard work and joy involved in ballet.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of ballet routines, dedication, artistic expression
  • Why we recommend this book: It gives a realistic look at the life of a young ballet student, emphasizing discipline and joy in dance.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young dancers and readers interested in the performing arts.

• Ballerino Nate by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley, illustrated by R.W. Alley
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: Nate loves ballet but his older brother thinks ballet is only for girls. Nate learns to stand up for his passion and discovers that ballet is for everyone who loves it.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-advocacy, gender roles, family dynamics
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching story about overcoming gender stereotypes and familial support.
  • Perfect for: Boys in ballet and any child learning to navigate family expectations and personal interests.

Challenging Ballet Books for 7-Year-Olds

• A Dance of Sisters by Tracey Porter
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows two sisters, Delia and Pearl, who are enrolled in a prestigious ballet school. While Delia struggles with the rigors of ballet, Pearl excels, creating tension between them as they navigate their personal and dance lives.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative structure is complex, and the themes of sibling rivalry and personal growth are explored in depth, which are advanced for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a nuanced look at relationships and personal development through the lens of ballet, providing readers with a richer understanding of emotional dynamics and resilience.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy family stories and those interested in a deeper, emotional exploration of ballet.

• The Ballet Book: Learning and Appreciating the Secrets of Dance by Darcey Bussell
  • Genre(s): Non-Fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive guide by former professional ballerina Darcey Bussell covers everything a young dancer needs to know about ballet, from the history of the dance to the steps, techniques, and performances.
  • Why this book is challenging: It includes detailed technical information and historical context that are usually not covered in children's books, making it an advanced read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It educates young readers on the intricacies of ballet, offering them a deeper appreciation and understanding of the art form.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring dancers and young readers interested in learning more about ballet in a detailed and comprehensive manner.

• Dancing in the Wings by Debbie Allen, illustrated by Kadir Nelson
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: Sassy is a tall young girl who loves ballet but often feels out of place due to her height and big feet. The story follows her journey to self-acceptance and her determination to succeed in the world of dance.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles themes of self-esteem and body image, which are complex issues for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an empowering story that promotes confidence and perseverance, encouraging readers to embrace their uniqueness.
  • Perfect for: Young dancers facing their own personal challenges and any child who needs encouragement to overcome self-doubt.

• The Painted Girls by Cathy Marie Buchanan
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in 1880s Paris, this novel follows the van Goethem sisters who enroll in the Paris Opera Ballet. As they delve into the gritty underworld of Paris, their lives take different paths influenced by poverty, art, and the darker sides of society.
  • Why this book is challenging: The historical setting and mature themes such as poverty and survival provide a challenging read for younger audiences.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a vivid portrayal of historical Paris and the ballet scene, providing cultural and historical education through a gripping narrative.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers interested in history and those looking for a story that combines art with a survival narrative.

• 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 as she pursues her dream of becoming a professional ballet dancer, depicting both her challenges and triumphs.
  • Why this book is challenging: The use of a graphic novel format to explore personal and professional growth in ballet offers a unique and sophisticated narrative approach.
  • Why we recommend this book: It visually and emotionally engages readers, providing a personal look into the life of a dancer and the physical and emotional demands of ballet.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate visual storytelling and those interested in a personal, behind-the-scenes look at ballet.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to nurture a love for reading in your 7-year-old, especially if they're interested in ballet, incorporating some fun reading exercises can make a world of difference. Here are a few exercises specifically designed to engage young readers and help them develop good reading habits while enjoying ballet-themed books.

• Read and Act
  • What it is: Read a passage from a ballet book and then act it out.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and makes reading an interactive experience.
  • Tips: Choose exciting passages with clear actions to make it more fun.

• Picture Prediction
  • What it is: Look at the book's illustrations before reading and predict the story.
  • How it helps: Encourages imagination and sets a purpose for reading.
  • Tips: Discuss each picture and ask what they think will happen next.

• Ballet Word Hunt
  • What it is: Find new ballet-related words in the book and make a list.
  • How it helps: Builds vocabulary and connects reading to their ballet interests.
  • Tips: Use a notebook dedicated to new words and revisit it regularly.

• Story Map Creation
  • What it is: Draw a map or timeline of the events in the story.
  • How it helps: Helps with understanding sequence and major events in the story.
  • Tips: Keep it simple; use drawings or symbols to represent different parts of the story.

• Character Connection
  • What it is: Pick a favorite character and write a few sentences about them.
  • How it helps: Enhances engagement and empathy through character exploration.
  • Tips: Encourage them to express why they like the character or how they relate to them.

• Reading Aloud Together
  • What it is: Take turns reading pages or chapters aloud to each other.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and builds confidence in reading out loud.
  • Tips: Show enthusiasm and use expressive voices to make it more entertaining.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine will not only make reading more enjoyable but also enhance your child's reading skills. Remember, the key is to keep the activities light and fun, so your little one always looks forward to reading time! Happy reading and twirling through the pages!