This month, I participated for the first time to a Blackberry Book Tour. The book in question? A delightful children’s book about ballet by Once Upon A Dance: Dance Stance.

Dance Stance

Dance Stance is the first novel in a new series by Once Upon A Dance called Ballet Inspiration and Choreography Concepts for Young Dancers. It teaches children all there is to know about ballet posture. Mind you, the book does not aim to replace the need for in-person training, but it is a great additional resource.

Usually, I find it harder to review children’s books because I’m – obviously – not the right audience. However, I have to say I did not have any trouble with this one, as I really enjoyed it myself. The book mixes humour and real ballerinas’ anecdotes with clear instructions. I was sold before I had even opened it, if I’m honest. The cover has such beautiful and soothing colours that it immediately drew my attention. The illustrations all throughout the book are simply magical <3 (I’m considering whether or not I can get away with having a ballet book collection just to look at the pretty pictures :p). I also really appreciated the diversity of the characters, and have found myself considering the concept of “stillness” in dance several times since reading it. So it’s clear even adults can learn something from this book! Icing on the cake? All proceeds are donated to charity!

In conclusion, Dance Stance is a funny, inspiring, and motivational book for children interested in ballet! Five out of five gemstones:

Age Category: 8+

Do you want to discover more?

If my review inspired you to pick up the book, don’t hesitate to check it out at Goodreads or at the below online stores.

Amazon.nl: Hardcover edition

Amazon.nl: Paperback edition

 Similar to this

Once Upon A Dance has two other series available. The first is the Dance-it-out Creative Movement Stories for Young Movers. This series is targeted at children between the ages of 4 and 7 and focuses on the imagination part of their mission. This is the series that I will have to try very hard to resist to buy for myself :p those covers are STUNNINGLY CUTE.

The second series is Dancing Shapes: Ballet and Body Awareness for Young Dancers, targeted at kids ages 6-9 and which is an exploration of detail and form.