Description
In the competitive world of ballet you always need to be on pointe.
If I wanted the lead role, Valentina had to go.
A contemporary Ballet Shoes set in an elite dance academy, this compelling coming-of-age novel is all about overcoming pressure, standing up for yourself and the joy of ballet! The perfect gift for all young dancers.
Amelia is a ballerina on the rise - she's talented, dedicated and set to star in the leadrole of the annual production. But when Valentina arrives from Italy and joins the ballet academy, the competition gets fierce. Can Amelia outshine Valentina and keepher place in the spotlight?
Review
Amelia loves ballet, it’s her whole world. Her mum and dad were both dancers, and itis all she can ever remember wanting to do.
Amelia is now the top student at an elite ballet school, and she is hoping (and expecting) to land the lead role in the upcoming production of Cinderella.
Valentina is a newly arrived student from Italy and she is also an amazing dancer. She is struggling to fit in her ballet and her school work with a large Italian family who expect Valentina to help out and be at every family event. But Valentina is determined to prove herself, and so a rivalry between her and Amelia starts.
When Valentina is given the role of Cinderella and Amelia is cast as the fairy godmother, things become even more awkward. Can they put aside their feelings and make the production spectacular?
This is a wonderful story of ballet, friendship, and growing up. It explores the competitive world of elite ballet, but also how friendship is the key to becoming your best self.
With strong themes of family support and expectations woven through the story, it will be loved readers in Year 5 and up.
Reviewed by Michelle
