Ella Bella Ballerina and Swan Lake

That little ballerina, Ella Bella, is once again transported into the middle of a famous ballet in this entry in author/illustrator James Mayhew's picture-book series devoted to her adventures. Dancing to the music from her instructor Madame Rosa's music box, Ella finds herself suddenly in the fairy-tale world of Swan Lake, where she must aid Swan Princess Odette in her struggle against the evil sorcerer who has enspelled her. When Odette is united with her prince, Ella finds herself in the real world again...

Like Ella Bella Ballerina and The Nutcracker, the only other book in this series that I have read, Ella Bella Ballerina and Swan Lake features a winsome young dancer who gets to personally experience the story-line of a celebrated show more ballet. The story is engaging, offering a child's-eye view of the famous tale, and the artwork is lovely. Recommended to young ballet dancers, and to anyone looking for picture-books to introduce children to the story of Swan Lake. show less

I really enjoyed this book. It takes a spin on the classic tale of The Swan Lake by inserting the young protagonist into the story. It is a really sweet uplifting book. I have read this to my ballet students in class, and it will definitely be an addition to my children's library in my classroom. I probably wouldn't use it for a lesson, but I would want it on the shelf for my readers to enjoy. Books don't always have to have a lesson attached, sometimes they can just be fun.

Damaged, Discarded