Product Description
The Ballets Russes was a phenomenon of the early twentieth century, permeating daily life wherever the company traveled and leaving a lasting impact on dance, theater, and the visual arts. Sergei Diaghilev, impresario from 1909 until his death in 1929, fused the most avant-garde, groundbreaking movements in dance, choreography, art, design, and costume into unique and stunning productions. The work was exciting, and always new, and it stretched the limits of the possible in art. The color, form, and material in costume and set design astonished audiences, transforming every corner of Western culture in the twentieth century.

Fashion and decor designers and visual artists in particular—including Coco Chanel, Natalia Goncharova, Mikhail Larionov, Léon Bakst, and Pablo Picasso—found inspiration in the Ballets Russes. Designers and artists moved past old boundaries and created costumes and set designs for these extravagant productions, bridging the gaps between tangible and abstract artistic genres.

The Ballets Russes and the Art of Design explores these revolutionary icons and ideas, illuminating Sergei Diaghilev's profound revitalization of the arts, which continues to influence us today. Ten essays by internationally recognized experts and 200 color and black-and-white illustrations—many from private collections and never-before-published—discuss a broad range of topics, including set and costume designs, graphic design and poster art, photographs and postcards, Diaghilev's presence in the media, and private and museum collections of Ballets Russes treasures. ... Read more

Product Description
"Here is New York City Ballet as it really is- the good, the not so good, and the majestically beautiful. It's a true story, and it's told by someone who can honestly claim that he was there." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (12)

Photo shopping, not a day at NYCB in .3
This book is manufactured. You are looking at "performance artists." They are not New York City Ballet on any day.

I could not put it down
This is true behind the scenes.Kyle captures a full day and lets us in on some secrets.It brought back wonderful memories of my own perfoming days.I do wish he had included more photos from Square Dance, which is the rehearsle and perfomance he talks us through.All the photos are true art.Thank you Kyle for doing this.

Great addition for any dancer
In The Wings is a wonderful book to own especially if you or the person you're buying the book for has had dance training. It's a wonderful look at everything you don't see before the performance. The morning warm up, ten-minute break, and exhausting rehearsals. My only gripe is that it's small! I was hoping this would be a coffee table book but it is in fact compact and very easy to take around.

The pictures and commentary are fabulous and give an in depth look into the goings on of the NYCB.

Highly recommended for the content and both black and white and color photographs. Only downer is the size, but that is easily looked past when you see what an amazing book this is.

A must have
This book is not another valentine to the New York City Ballet - it's far more authentic than that, and far more important. It's an often poignant look at what it's been like for this thoughtful, creatively gifted dancer to grow up in the company, with all the joys and disappointments that come with that surreal but privileged life.
I've always thought of Kyle Froman as a beautiful dancer, but as it turns out he's also a gifted photographer and an elegant writer as well. His photographs and his words have a penetrating honesty, and the book succeeds so brilliantly because it rings so true.

New York City Ballet Must Have
I wish this book would have received more attention upon its release. It is a fabulous book of photographs and commentary from someone, a dancer, on the inside at New York City Ballet and is filled with images, wonderful images, that one would likely not otherwise see in any other ballet book. For the fan of NYCB it's a must have, but would be equally at home on the shelf of any ballet or photography fan. Mr. Froman has produced a keeper. Bravo!!! ... Read more

Product Description
The latest volume in Black Dog’s successful book-and-CD series combines the mesmerizing stories of the world’s great ballets with fun facts, dancing how-tos, history, profiles— all accompanied by charming original watercolors.

From Swan Lake and The Nutcracker to Peter and the Wolf and Fancy Free, the of twenty-five of the world’s best-loved ballets are told, accompanied by corresponding tracks on an enclosed CD. These are the charming stories that bring ballet to life on the stage, along with the music that has made them into enduring classics.

Surrounding the stories is a captivating, illustrated history of ballet, each page filled with information, artwork, and profiles of the world’s great dancers, choreographers, and composers. There are even instructions on ballet positions and the key moves that every dancer needs to know.

The musical selections included on the CD are keyed to specific points in the text, making the book uniquely interactive, educational, and fun. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A beautiful book
I gave it to my 5 year old daughter who has enjoyed dancing to the CD and learning a little about each of the ballets (although as the other review pointed out,I have had to be aware of what information to tell her).

CD of Ballet Selections Inadequate for What it Could Be
This book was a gift to my granddaughter.I have only read the section on Giselle, as that ballet was the one we were preparing to see.I found that the CD was a good idea, but only contained a brief piece from each ballet.Also, there was no verbal announcement, nor written guide to which piece on the CD went with which ballet.

Great Book for Children, for Ballet Classes and as a Teaching Aid
I am a dance teacher and I love using books and videos as teaching aids and supplements to my curriculum. This book is excellent, it tells the stories of the great classical ballets in short story, understandable format for children and includes music!

I like it, but the age rating may be wrong.
I bought this so that I would have something to read to my ballet students occasionally.It is a beautiful book, however, I would recommend it for maybe the 8-10 age group.The music is nice to listen to at any age though.I had quite forgotten how many of the themes of ballets are a little racy!And how would a 4-5 year react to stories about love triangles, suicide (Romeo and Juliet), and other "mature" themes in ballet.I think older ballet students would get more of a kick out of this book than 4-6 year olds would. ... Read more

Product Description
Teaching a beginning ballet class can be achallenge. Even dancers who have studied ballet for many years may beintimidated by the idea of teaching ballet technique. TeachingBeginning Ballet Technique puts new teachers at ease by explainingexactly what to teach and when and how to teach it.

The authors couple ballet pedagogy with motor learning, teachingstyles assessment, and instructional strategies to offer valuableinsight and advice for teaching beginning ballet. With its invitinglayout and easy-to-read format, Teaching Beginning Ballet Techniquefacilitates the learning process for both the instructor and thestudent.

Part I gives instructors the tools they’ll need to teach the content in Part II. It provides specific information about the teaching/learning process, understanding the theoretical foundations of ballet, constructing and managing the class, and assessing student progress.

Part II presents a logical, sequential plan that guides instructors through the actual teaching of exercises, steps, principles, and progressions. The authors outline four instructional units, each representing three to four weeks of a high school or college term. Each unit includes objectives, teaching strategies, assessment tools, teacher responsibilities, and performance test content. In addition, each exercise and step is accompanied by a detailed description consisting of

• a definition with pronunciation cues,
• a verbal depiction,
• arm positions,
• standard introductory movements or preparation,
• proper breathing or breath phrasing,
• teaching cues and images,
• an assessment checklist, and
• much more.

The book also contains 215 photos that illustrate proper beginning ballet technique.

A related CD-ROM, Interactive Beginning Ballet, provides another power visual tool for understanding techniques and terminology. The book and CD-ROM are available separately, or you can save money by buying them as a package. See "Companion Resources" for more information. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Great Resource
I purchased this book because I was going to be starting teaching ballet to young children after being out of ballet for awhile. It was a terrific resource for reminding me about all the terms and pronounciations. It also gave a great outline for how to structure the class timewise, as how to progress through the steps as the weeks went on. It was a great buy!

Step by step
This book is great for the beginning teacher.I liked the suggested order and combination of barre excercises going from beginning to more difficult.Center work is also covered with suggestions of how to build a routine for an adagio and an allegro.It's a wonderful reference book and can be used in teaching adults.

Great resource for adult beginners and dance teachers
This is an excellent resource for adults wanting to understand more about the basic movements of classical ballet. The first couple of chapters are aimed at dance teachers - you can skip these if you want - but definitely read the section on the steps. It makes some of the things you do in class much easier to understand. This is a great resource for adults doing recreational classes and college students.
I also purchased the CD ROM that goes with it. Its great. You need to contact the publisher for an 'unlock code' to install it on your pc. But thats ok, they are pretty quick. A++++

Excellent resource
This book was written to be used in an academic setting but is an excellent resource for teaching beginning ballet in general. I was a dancer for many years, but I am just now getting in to teaching. Like the authors said, it is good to get a review because it is a long time since I was a beginner. The book helps to clarify what beginners can and can't do. I just skipped over the parts about tailoring your classes to teaching in high school/college since it didn't apply.

Technique Illustrated
I was asked to teach a ballet class as an extension club activity in my school and was looking for a book that would illustrate correct technique.After carefully reviewing numerous books, I chose this one.I provided what I was looking for. ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (2)

Another book for grand daughter
My grand daughter is a huge fan of the Rainbow Magic series (any book). She seems to have enjoyed this book. I can speak for the delivery, it exceeded both promises and expections.

We like this series of books and I as Grandma love the price!!
Have not reaD THIS TOTALLY SO can not make a review- My kindergartener loves them!! ... Read more

Product Description
Lili loves to dance, and dreams of becoming a ballerina. In her ballet class she does stretches, works at the barre, and learns the five classical dance positions that are the basics for the roles she may dance when she is older. Enhanced by delicate watercolor illustrations, this lovely book is the perfect introduction for boys and girls who want to learn more about ballet. Full color. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Go Lili Go
I just loved this book which I shared with my students at my ballet school. We had a joyous time going over every detail and I found it very helpful as a learning tool as well. I will give it as a Christmas present to my own children, who dance too. I think the illustrations were right on and I am so pleased with the book.

Pretty Pictures! (But don't expect a How-To or a story)
The illustrations are gorgeous!

Unfortunately, in picture after picture (not ALL, but way too many) the arms are in the wrong position in relation to the legs, which is a very unbalanced thing for a young child to try to imitate... and the beautifull illustrations are so engrossing that it's hard to explain to a youngster that the picture is showing either the wrong leg forward or the wrong arm up...

The so-called story is lacking any real plot, but then, that isn't why you buy this book anyway.Any young child will really really love the artwork.And unlike many other books on ballet, this one shows children, so little girls relate to it in a more personal way.

Buy it for the pictures, but for a how-to of steps and positions, get a different book that is more accurate.

If you love ballet then you will love this book
I am an x ballerina and now my young daughter dances. She can't get enough of theis book and reads it over and over again. We loved the illustrations so much, that we wrote to Ms. Isadora and asked if she would sell us apiece of art from the book! The book simply but thoroughly explains balletto a young child but to a novice as well. I am just thrilled that such abook is available! ... Read more

Product Description

Customer Reviews (2)

Daughter LOVES this book
My daughter loves this book.We checked it out from the Library and she did not want to take it back....so I bought her a copy for home.

Charming & lovely!
What a beautiful book!The illustrations are soft, sweet watercolors.The story is just as sweet -- a delight for any little girl!My 3 year old daughter can't get enough of this book. ... Read more

Product Description
Meet Biff, an adorable little puppy who will stop at nothing to become a ballet dancer. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Love it!
My 5 yr old thinks this is hysterical.I love it too.It's funny and fun and the pictures are a perfect match with the story. My kids love to find the dog hidden in some pictures. If your child takes ballet, it'll be an even bigger hit.I love to read this to them. ... Read more

Product Description
Seven lessons follow a young dancer's development, from basic positions and postures to more advanced levels. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Pass
I own a ballet studio and frequently seek out new teaching aids. This book was a huge disappointment. While my school does not teach RAD style I was under the impression that this book would provide a detailed syllabus of classes for all RAD levels offering potential insights for myself and students. Boy was I wrong! The book is filled with large drawings depicting between two and three movements per class. I would certainly hope that RAD teaches more than that over the course of a full year. The steps they chose to highlight are also no-brainer sorts of movements; skips for elementary students, butterfly stretches for young students, promenades for intermediate. For me, and I would hope most competent teachers, this book was completely useless.

Fabulous!
Step By Step Ballet Class is an excellent book.Very clear illustrations and comments full of insight.I would highly recommend this book to anyone teaching or studying the RAD syllabus.FABULOUS!

I Love This Book
This is really nice. It explains the steps "step-by-step". The drawings are nice and easy to follow.

Great book!
Everything is explained thoroughly and well illustrated. Its definitely a good book to have if you're starting ballet or getting back to dancing (like me).
A must have for every parent, student and teacher.

Review of RAD Ballet Class Book
I really enjoyed reading about the different levels and what they encompassed.I had been through these levels but couldn't recall what each offered.As an instructor, it was a great review. ... Read more

Product Description
The world-renowned Joffrey Ballet School makes the art and joy of ballet available to everyone.Let Dena Simone Moss and Allison Kyle Leopold teach you everything you need to know to get in shape, beautifully sculpt your body, and truly appreciate the art of ballet. They'll let you in on all their secrets, including:-A demystifying explanation of ballet terms and positions-Tips on finding the right instructor and studio-and feeling comfortable once you're there-Hints on ballet attire-including finding, choosing, and tying pointe shoes-An exhaustive directory of where to find ballet publications, audio and videotapes, books, dance wear, schools, and studios.Perfect for the beginner and the veteran balletomane, The Joffrey Ballet School's Ballet-Fit offers an inside glimpse into the mysterious and beautiful world of ballet.Amazon.com Review
Ballet-Fit is for the adult beginner ballet student,"whether 17 or 70." The authors admit the atmosphere in most balletstudios can be a bit intimidating, but say it needn'tbe.

We concede that if you hang around your local balletschool or dance studio, at first glance, it probably will seem to befilled with long-legged, lean-limbed adolescents, with tight littlehair buns, stern little faces, and rumpled leg warmers around theirankles. But ... chances are the 23-year-old stretching on the floorisn't a budding ballerina but a law student who finds beginning balleta relaxing break from her books. As for the thirty-something woman atthe barre, very likely she's a new mother who's thrilled with thestronger, firmer, more flexible body she has developed since she beganclasses.

Ballerinas, as dancer Allegra Kent put it, "have thestrongest, most beautiful, and very probably the most envied bodies inthe world." With Ballet-Fit and some dedication, you can workyour way toward becoming a toned, flexible balletomane,too. --Erica Jorgensen ... Read more

Customer Reviews (21)

Ballet-Fit
A word first about how I came to buy the book. I have been dancing about five years, Israeli folk, not ballet. Folk dancing is a great way to stay fit, but in my classes at least, there is little emphasis on low impact preparation: warm-up, flexibility and strengthening. Ballet, specifically work at the barre and "on the floor," is great for that.

I bought the book thinking I would exercise at home. The book can serve for that, but it is far more centered on getting you into class. The authors emphasize that, yes, to be a professional dancer you have to start young, but ballet has tangible benefits no matter what age you start. It is written to make you aware that there are a lot of schools that have adult classes and to get you over the threshold. It spends a good deal of time talking away all the reasons why you think you can't do this. It talks in a straightforward, no-nonsense way about what to expect: dress, shoes, typical class programs. Some schools hold more to ritual than others: it spends some time on class etiquette. And since ballet is "in French," it has a chapter on "language": the different positions - feet and hands - and movements, from stage one (plie, tendu), to more complex (battement tendu jete, rond de jambe), with careful guidance to how they are done.

The Joffrey is known for its professional program, but it also takes its adult beginners very seriously. As I mentioned, I did not buy the book expecting to take classes, but the Joffrey is walking distance from my home in New York, and one of the two authors, Dena Simone Moss, teaches adult elementary.

I would add my vote to my teacher's view, hers formed over long experience, that to get into ballet you really do need to be in class. The individual positions and movements, those in beginning class at least, are not physically difficult, but there are countless ways to head just a little off the rails. It needs a mature eye.

The Only Book of It's Kind
Most books on ballet are either dictionaries of terminology or else they are intended to be read by young children and teenagers.Ballet fit fills in a void in the literature for those of us who started dancing late, already have some kind of career, and do it for the sheer love of it.I wish there were more books for adult beginner dancers.

Disappointment
The book was somewhat of a disappointment due to the fact that I had already started ballet when I bought it. I had also already found out a lot of useful information on the internet. The target group of the book is adults THINKING of starting talking up ballet. The "Ballet fit" at the end was mostly a brief summary of what excercised that can be expected from a ballet class. Many of the movements are difficult to understand since there weren't enough amount of illustrating pictures. The pictures that are there are surely beautiful, but unfortunately, they have mostly used a pre-pro student in the center of focus and NOT real adult beginners (they are placed at the back). Which really doesn't give you any indication of how far an adult beginner can reach.
If you are going to buy the book, do it for the right reason: As a motivation for starting classes and NOT a technical instruction book or ballet work-out book!

From barbells to Ballet slippers
Ballet is one of the best workouts a person can get. It promotes good posture, flexibility, coordination, strength, grace, and balance at the same time bringing out one of the most artful forms of expression through dance. There is a recent trend of people wanting less grinding forms of fitness such as weight lifting and aerobics. This has caused a serge in popularity in workouts such as Pilates and Yoga in adults. This has also brought interest in means of working out that are both beneficial to your health and fun to do; thus the rising popularity of adult ballet classes.

A few years ago adult ballet classes were very rare. It was considered inane because there really was no hope in becoming professional when starting as an adult. However, there is a new movement of adults whose goal is not to become the professional ballet dancers but turning to it for the sheer fitness benefits. This book is perfect for the types of people just mentioned. There is a certain amount of anxiety and hesitation, however, when entering the world of ballet for the first time as an adult. Ballet is very structured and detailed and this can be a huge turn-off for someone who's not acquainted to this. This book takes all of that anxiety out for you. It tells you everything you need to know so you are completely prepared for your first class. It goes over how to buy your fist pair of ballet slippers; how to get the correct size and fit. It tells you the proper attire. It goes over all the basic foot and arm positions, correct form, and all the terminology. It also has wonderful pictures so you can see just what the positions are supposed to look like. It tells you what to expect the structure of the class to be like.

Now, I actually took ballet for several years when I was younger, but quit my sophomore year of high school. I'm now 26 years old and have had a child, so I was a bit apprehensive to even think about going back into ballet. This book was a great refresher and gave me the courage to get back on my toes again.

Wow!
This book was amazing! I read the entire book before deciding to take an adult ballet class and this book was dead on. It helped clarify everything from what to wear, to how the class would be formatted. I felt so at ease when I walked into my first class and saw the age range of the students - there were young 20-somethings all the way to a lady in her 50's - and there was even a guy in our class! The workout section towards the end of the book is great. You can do one or all of the exercises on your days out of class. And some of them will really get you stretching. I've noticed that there aren't many, if any, floor exercises during class - such as crunches. Most of the class time is spent doing barre work and some center work at the end. These workouts provide an excellent warm up before class. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who is interested in getting into (or back into) ballet. It will clarify any questions you could possibly have and leave you feeling like you can do this when you're finished reading it! ... Read more

Product Description
A companion guide to one of the bestselling Limelight Edition titles, this book by Asaf Messerer, a founder of what has become known as the Bolshoi School, is one of the most celebrated manuals of classic dance instruction in the world. Messerer has gained an international reputation for his classes in classical technique-models of invention and well-rounded exercise, stressing both precision and fluid artistic control. Nearly 500 photographs of principal Bolshoi dancers illustrate the positions and steps indicated, and an introductory section by Messerer outlines his basic plan and philosophy of teaching. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Classic Reprinted
This is a wonderful reference book for the classical ballet teacher.It is a compilation of classes from a master of Russian dance.Great photos of historic stars form the Russian ballet world.I used to own this book in hardcover, but lost it, so this softcover replacement is like getting back in touch with an old friend. Great value.

Muy bueno
Tiene 6 lecciones completas de ballet; pero son para niveles avanzados; y están muy bien explicadas; y las fotos ayudan mucho

stimulating reading
Once you get to grips with the (Bolshoi) excercises being described in measures rather than counts it's a wonderful resource for the serious teacher and adolescent student. There are lots of clear(if old fashioned) photos: Plisetskya and a young Maximova included. This book should be on every ballet teacher's bookshelf, along with theory books relating to Cecchetti, Kirov and English schools of training... A serious book for passionate bookworms like me.

Teachers and dancers will find it a top instructional pick.
CLASSES IN CLASSICAL BALLET has long been a classic out of print, so its reappearance after thirty years makes it a 'must' acquisition for any serious dance or ballet collection. Author Asef Messerer is a celebrated dancer and teacher, the founder of the Bolshoi school of ballet, and here provides six of his classes with notes, positions and steps illustrated by nearly 500 black and white photos of principal Bolshoi dancers. Teachers and dancers will find it a top instructional pick.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Six complete ballet classes of the BOLSHOI SCHOOL.
This book is not for a beginner.It contains six virtuosic ballet classes by the great Bolshoi teacher, Asef Messerer, uncle and teacher of Maya Plisetskaya. The classes are abundantly illustrated followed by a section on Bolshoi Theatre Artists in performance including those of Asef Messerer himself. ... Read more

Product Description
“For soundness, for clarity, for succinctness, this manual of basic ballet is the best there is anywhere.”
–Edwin Denby, The Nation

With a precision unparalleled in any other book of its kind, The Classic Ballet presents a lucid text, and nearly six hundred drawings describe and illustrate in minute detail the proper body position, balance point, movement, and attitude of each position and step in the basic classical repertory.

As George Balanchine wrote in his preface: “There are no shortcuts to great dancing, but what is necessary to remember and unalterable in its instruction may be found in this book . . . An admirable source of reference for the highest standard of practice.” It is an invaluable tool for the student or teacher of ballet–as well as a must-have treasure for the balletomane. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

A helpful reference book for new dancers
Excellent, illustrated reference. Preface by Balanchine.Every young ballerina should have a copy of this nice reference book!

Great for Ballet Buffs
I purchased this book because I wanted an updated copy of the 1971 version.This book is practically identical to the older copy, but it's still great information and a really cool book.

These Drawings Are Clearer Than Photos!
This is a wonderful book for beginners as well as experienced dancers.In particular, this is one of the best references for barre exercises, but the center steps are well covered, too.This is actually my first choice when recommending barre exercise references, which is reason enough to include it in a ballet library.

Timeless Beauty Revisited
This beautiful classic, repackaged by Alfred A. Knopf, will remain a treasured addition to the library of any lover of the ballet.Six hundred stunning illustrations, in 156 plates by Carlus Dyer bring life to the concepts.

Fantastic book!!!
I have the hard bound edition of this book, published some time ago byAlfred Knopf, and I never tire of looking at the drawings and appreciatingthe mathematical precision of classical ballet. The reading of this bookwill be of an enormous assistance to studying ballet, and it is alsoinvaluable if one wants to study the more technical facets of the subject.Ballet is one form of dance that can be mathematically systemaitized andcharacterized, and this book is a great reference for such an undertaking. Definitely worth having and the paperback edition with its low price makesit completely accessible to all. ... Read more

Product Description
In May 1909, Sergei Diaghilev astonished the world of dance with his first ballet presentations in Paris that demonstrated an unprecedented combination of vitality and grace, originality, and technical sophistication. This catalogue of over three hundred artworks related to the Saisons Russes between 1909 and 1929 is the official companion to an exhibition in Monte Carlo.The legendary productions are brought to life through stage designs, costumes, paintings, sculptures, photographs, and programs. The artwork comes from a wide variety of public and private collections, including the Fokine collection in the St. Petersburg Theatre Museum. Diaghilev’s scenic achievements are complemented by a number of contextual paintings, drawings, and other artifacts, which help to define Russia’s cultural renaissance of the first decades of the twentieth century. The documentary section of the catalog contains rich archival material, including letters, photographs, choreographic notes, and memoirs, many published here for the first time. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

exceptional book on Ballets Russes
Serge Diaghilev's Ballets Russes lasted from 1909 to 1929; its ground-breaking activities revolutionised the world of ballet. Rooted in the ballet world of St Petersburg, it involved artists, musicians, choreographers, and designers whose influence remain to this day. Illustrious names like Picasso, Bakst, Folkine, Larionov, Benois and Goncharova were associated with the company.

This book is a catalogue of a centenary exhibition held in Monte Carlo in 2009, then moving to Moscow. Monte Carlo was the venue for many of the BalletsRusses's great triumphs. The introductory essays, by authorities in their respective fields, discuss the history of the company, its association with Monte Carlo, Diaghilev's world and the activities of set designers such as Bakst, Benois, Larionov and Goncharova.

This section is followed by illustrations related to various Ballets Russesballet and opera productions. Included in the illustrations are costumes, photographs of dancers, productions, related art works and set designs. These are of great interest and beauty. Ballet, history and art enthusiasts would find this book exceptionally appealing.

There are two other volumes covering this subject that are worth mentioning; "The Art of Ballet Russes" (the collection of Serge Lifar) and "Set and Costume Designs" (Thyssen Bornemisza catalogue). The printing standards of these books are slightly superior the very good standard of A Feast of Wonders. The former issues are expensive and difficult to obtain. The Feast of Wonders gives the best general coverage and illustrations of the three. At the present price it is a steal and I cannot recommend it highly enough. ... Read more

Product Description
Stories to go!Children love to listen to stories. Now their favorite Dorling Kindersley children's books are available in convenient book--and--tape packages that are perfect for the car or anywhere. With more than 60 minutes of audio on each tape, these packages will be favorites of children and parents alike. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

excellent book
this book is a good simple narrated collection of short stories of ballet plays.
Excellent for young dancers, who want to know a short understandable version of the ballet pieces.

Great for little ballerinas!
I bought this book as a gift for a ballet class friend of my daughter, who is 4 1/2.I've since bought many more for additional birthday parties!The girls love hearing the stories, and it is a wonderful preparation for going to the ballet - they love knowing the story and what to look for on the stage.The moms tell me that their daughters love to listen to the CD as they are going to sleep.My daughter loves to listen to it in the car while she's looking at the book.We really love DK books.They are captivating, interesting, full of facts, and beautifully illustrated.

Aspiring Ballerina
This book was everything that we wanted it to be!My daughter is almost 6 and loves it.I bought it because she is interested in ballet and loves to dance, but we knew little about the stories of the famous ballets.This book was perfect for teaching her about five of the most famous ballets.I highly recommend this book & CD to others.

Good Choices
I bought the book to share with my younger ballet students.My 5-6 year olds loved sitting down for a short story time during ballet class.The story of The Nutcracker was divided into four logical sections, so for their last four classes before winter break I read one section each class.

The first time I introduced a little background of the ballet before reading.Each subsequent day we reviewed the characters, action and setting from the week prior before reading the next section.After reading about the Land of Sweets and the Sugar Plum Fairy (the last two sections) I had my students try to dance like their favorite candies of today, then we danced to the actual Sugar Plum Fairy music.

I was able to incorporate the story into my class easily, because it was divided so well already.One part of the story was on each two page spread, and my students loved looking at the illustrations and the photographs of actual dancers in costume.

I have listened to the CD component, but it only seems to have one track for each story, so it would have been difficult to use in my lesson plan.It does have the music for each section of the ballet in the background as Ms. Bussell is reading.The CD would be an excellent accompaniment for reading the book with a child at home, or listening to at home or in the car.

I will probably use the same format to share another of the five total ballet stories in the book with my students, and I will definitely repeat the Nutcracker lesson plan next Fall.

Great book/cd
I bought this for my 5yr old daughter who is taking ballet lessons.It is a charming informative book with wonderful photos and drawings. I think children older than 4-8(amazon's recommendation) would also enjoy this item. ... Read more

Product Description
This title brings a budding ballerina's favourite ballet stories to life, new in paperback. It includes a detailed exploration of five popular ballet stories, with performance photographs, illustrations and additional facts. Plus an introduction to ballet steps and a ballet class, and a specialist glossary. It also includes an introduction by Darcey Bussell. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Ballet book
Wonderful book, but hard to find with the music CD, so I was delighted to find that this seller had it, and in the edition I wanted. Even better, the book and CD were in perfect condition, still in the original plastic wrap. The price was very fair, less than I expected, and the delivery was fast. I will look for this seller again!

Beautiful book and CD
This book is full of information and pictures, and does a great job of describing the major ballets like Coppelia, Sleeping Beauty, and The Nutcracker. My daughters loved the numerous photos and drawings, and read the book for hours and pretended they were at the ballet. The accompanying CD adds an extra layer of interactive learning. I bought this with the Ballet Friends books by Kitty Michaels. Together they made a great ballet gift set. This book of ballet stories is terrific and gets an A++.

Best Book on Classic Ballets!!
I bought this book as a gift for my 5 year old daughter who had just learned about Coppelia at summer dance camp. This book not only has the wonderful pictures and stories of the ballets but also a wonderful CD of the music to accompany it.My ballerina really like the pictures of the pros as well.We read it over and over and make up our own dances to the music.A must have for any ballerina!

Wonderful, inspiring, illustrations
This book should never go out of print.It has the most beautiful illustrations and the stories are told in a charming condenced manner.Each story includes a note or two about the music, some history, original dancers, and practical tips.For example, a note is made in the Swan Lake story indicating that the bow which was to be used to shoot the swans was too heavy for the dancer.He had to change his balance and lower his jumps when he danced with that particular prop. I am a ballet teacher and I have seen many children's ballet books, this one is at the top of my list.

Illustrated Book of Ballet Stories
Great book! We bought it for our 4-year old's first dance recital and are enjoying reading and learning with her.The music is an added value and makes it all the more educational and enjoyable. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (3)

GREAT
ALTHOUGH I'M NOT A DANCE MAJOR, I WANTED TO HAVE A LITTLE KNOWLEDGE OF IT. I TOOK A DANCE CLASS THIS BOOK WAS REQUIRED, AND REALLY ENJOYED ITS HISTORY AND INFORMATION. WORTH TO ACTUALLY READ IT. ALSO ATTENDING SYNAPSES THAT WAS ENCOURAGED BY THIS BOOK.

Great overview of Ballet and Modern Dance
This is a good book offering the background of Ballet and Modern dance. It was nice to have one place to go for both, and it offers a much more extensive history than most technique books that give one page or so to history. The Ballet section focuses on the art form as a theatrical art - not information proceeding this (fine with me). There are some interesting aspects including the development of new ballet steps, costume design changes, and gender roles. Many many famous dancers/dance makers are mentioned in the book, and their contributions. I was surprised to see excerpts of writings of famous dancers/dance makers in the book - something I would be interested in.I would recommend the book, but rather suggest you buy the 2nd edition version, which offers more. I wasn't able to find the 2nd edition in hardback, only paperback.

Concise, thorough & easy to read
This book is especially interesting and easy to follow.It provides a sound overview of the history of dance with special focus on ballet and modern dance.This book introduces the novice to the legendary art of dance and captures the reader's attention with crafty storytelling.Iparticularly enjoyed the portion focusing on the history of ballet. Anderson introduces the reader to many of the individuals who shaped andpopularized this art form while providing a firm background of the originsand development of this art. This book begins with a history of dance inthe Greco-Roman era and brings the reader full circle with discussions ofrecent triumphs in dance.Anderson creates a book that is informative andthorough while presenting the reader with drawings and photographs of manyinfluential artists and great performances. ... Read more

Product Description
Taking center stage this spring-Ellie Brown in The Royal Ballet School Diaries! With a passion for dancing and the drive to succeed, Ellie, an American girl, will stop at nothing to achieve her dream of getting accepted as a ballet student at the Royal Ballet School in London. This new series is the perfect mix of ballet, friendship, competition, and taking chances!

Dear Diary,

I can't believe I'm really here in London! It was hard to say good-bye to everyone in Chicago, but I promised to write. And I think it will be kind of cool to see what it's like to live in another country. The coolest part is that I'm going to audition for The Royal Ballet School's Junior Associate Program! The Royal Ballet School is only THE BEST dancing school in England! If they accept me, my dream of becoming a famous ballerina just may come true. I'm going to start practicing extra every day. I don't want to make any mistakes during my audition! Wish me luck! I may need it! ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Great read for young readers interested in ballet
This book is a great story about the wonders of dancing, and the stresses of life. Being a dancer myself, I can say that the dance classes in the book are really realistic. Great read for any young reader interested in dance and the beauty of ballet.

Nice Book
I really like Ellie's chance to dance. I've read almost all of the series. I love these books and any girl or boy ballet enthusiast should read this book.

This book is good for a small ballerina.
My daughter who has ballet lessons loves to read this series.

good young adult ballet story for anyone
This is a charming book that makes the ballet world come alive for its young students. Anyone who dreams of becoming a ballerina, especially those that want to study at the Royal Ballet School, will love this book. It describes ballet classes and the school itself. The narrator of the story is Ellie, who is moving to England with her widowed mother who just got a new job there. Now Ellie is able to attend an audition for the R.B.S. junior associate program. Ellis goes through all the issues with moving to a different country, meeting new friends, trying to keep old ones, and also seeing her mother fall in love with someone. This story will please anyone interested in ballet, especially younger ones.

Ellie's Chance to Dance
I do ballet, and Alexandra Moss' books are so acurate with the way things actually happen that I absolutley love them. They face real life problems that aren't exaggerated in any way! This book is wonderful! ... Read more

Product Description
Book #1 in the Ballet Friends series.

Two girls from opposite worlds with the same impossible dream - to become a prima ballerina by the age of thirteen. Toe-tally Fabulous is the story of twelve-year-old Jessie Garrett, a basketball-playing tomboy who one summer stumbles into ballet class and unleashes her unknown prima. But first, Jessie must trade in her sneakers for toe shoes. This all comes as a surprise to girly-girl classmate Bianca Best, who's the top student at Madame Schumann's School of Ballet. Bianca's been taking ballet for years, and even has her Juilliard application filled out! It's only when Bianca takes Jessie under her wing that new girl Jessie transforms into the school's best dancer, and Bianca's best friend. But will their new friendship be strong enough to survive auditions for the big recital? And what happens when class drama queen Margo gets in the mix and competes for the spotlight and Bianca's friendship?

Reading level: ages 9 to 12 ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

Not what I thought
Bought this book for my daughter (just turned 13, so she is a little old for this book, but she doesn't like to read, so I was grasping.)She has just started ballet, and was working up to be tested for her pointe shoes, so I thought this might be a good series to help her find reading enjoyable.

She didn't pick the book up at all, so I decided to read it to see if it would actually appeal to her "if she ever gave it a chance" and I have to say that I found it painful to read.I will say that I am a 43 year old mother, and this book is not written for "me" but...I read almost all books that my kids read, so that I can discuss their books with them, and this one was 'painful.'

I found the way the girls in the story talked to each other (bickering in dance class) to be distasteful.Additionally, in my daughter's ballet class, it is very disciplined.The girls come in, cannot be late, must be dressed appropriately, if you leave (bathroom, etc) you must curtsy, ask permission, and ask permission to re-enter the floor, etc, etc.It has really leveled up my daughter's etiquette, and I am pretty sure most ballet classes are like this, although we are novices to ballet.I found the way the girls talked to each other, dog piled, etc in class...was silly, and would NEVER happen in a true setting.So I guess to sum it up...I found this book to be totally unrealistic and I wouldn't want my daughter to emulate any of the behaviours in this book.It probably has a good following by some readers, but I decided to quietly remove it from the house, and am glad my daughter has not asked about it.I would consider reading it before offering it to your daughter.

But, I do think that reading is VERY important, so if this book gets your daughter to read, then so be it.I just think there are much better choices. My apologies to the author.I actually feel bad writing this review.Maybe the others in the series get better, more polite, etc...I just can't read anymore.

Loved it!!
I can't say enough good things about this book. My daughter is eleven and a beginner pointe student. She's making the change from ballet slippers to pointe shoes, just like the girls in Ballet Friends. This series is right up her alley! The characters have exactly the same interests as her, and they are nice girls with good values, creative personalities, and they love, love, love ballet! This book is just fabulous! Keeps my daughter reading every night! I would absolutely encourage fellow moms and dads out there to try this series.

Builds Confidence
I got this for my 10 y/o niece who's just learning toe. She loves it because the characters are also learning toe for the first time! My niece loves to read and she's very shy, but she's starting to make friends now in her ballet class. I think this book helped her with her confidence and made her feel "cool" to do ballet. It sounds like the main character Bianca is very self-assured and fabulous, and my niece loves to read about her. I'm really pleased this book was such a good influence and now I'm back to order her the next book in the series.

Made a Beautiful Gift Set
Just received books 1-5 in the Ballet Friends series and couldn't be more pleased. The books are so pretty with beautiful ballet pictures on the covers. They made a great gift presentation. My older daughter just finished her first year of pointe, and she loves reading about the characters going through what she just went through. I recommend this book because my daughter enjoyed it so much, and after checking it over it seems very sweet and all about ballet. I'm looking forward to buying more in the series.

Keeping kids active with ballet
I'm a pilates instructor and like to buy books for my kids that promote a healthy lifestyle. Both my girls read the Ballet Friends books which I was happy to find on Amazon. This book was a page turner for my girls and they said it was "awesome." They think Jessie is really cool because she plays basketball and does ballet. I think it's great to encourage girls to play sports as well as appreciate ballet. I feel confident recommending this series and I also recommend Element: Ballet Conditioning DVD with Elise Gulan.
... Read more

Product Description
Let yourself be drawn into the fascinating world of dance with these exciting and accessible tales from the world s most famous ballets, including Swan Lake, The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty. This beautiful anthology is the ideal way to introduce youngsters to one of the most intriguing and graceful forms of dance that exists today. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Beautifully Illustrated Ballet Tales
The description of this book on both Amazon and B&N is completely wrong (for another book, perhaps?). Jane Yolen and Heidi EY Stemple retell six classic ballets: Coppelia, Swan Lake, Cinderella, The Nutcracker, The Sleeping Beauty, and Daphnis and Chloe. Each story is preceded by a page of historical notes, including initial reception of the ballet (The Sleeping Beauty was a failure). Rebecca Guay's gorgeous illustrations grace each story, including miniature and full page illustrations, and even a few two page spreads. A brief history of ballet and a bibliography conclude the volume. There is also a cd included, with the stories read by Juliet Stevenson. Highly recommended to fans of the ballet and fairy tales. ... Read more