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The Ballerina
The Ballerina is a story about reaching dreams, fulfilling destiny, and an extraordinary experience of a lifetime.
Alina loves to dance and has a growing passion for the art of ballet. With an upcoming performance for her dance class, she finds herself struggling with the confidence to stand out.
One day, while helping her mother in her vintage shop, Alina finds an old enchanting costume in a donated box. This magical costume connects Alina to a famous prima ballerina from times past, who encourages her to work hard and believe in herself.
With excitement and renewed confidence, Alina not only discovers more about the art of dance, but also finds her destiny and true self.
Alina loves to dance and has a growing passion for the art of ballet. With an upcoming performance for her dance class, she finds herself struggling with the confidence to stand out.
One day, while helping her mother in her vintage shop, Alina finds an old enchanting costume in a donated box. This magical costume connects Alina to a famous prima ballerina from times past, who encourages her to work hard and believe in herself.
With excitement and renewed confidence, Alina not only discovers more about the art of dance, but also finds her destiny and true self.
122 pages, Paperback
Published February 22, 2023
About the author
Catherine Follestad
15 books3 followersCatherine Follestad has always been interested in art and storytelling in many forms. Her early painting career began in Australia in 1972 when she and her husband moved there for a teaching job. During this time, they were Sunday School Supervisors and teachers with a love of telling bible stories using songs, pictures, and flannel graphs. Her creativity expanded into local art shows where she sold her paintings.
Upon returning to the United States, Catherine studied with local artists while taking classes at Western Washington University and Whatcom Community College. She broadened her interests to various mediums and began experimenting with illustrations and cartooning.
Catherine loves the artistic process and beauty of life which is reflected in everything she writes and paints. Her books tell stories of heroes, the underdog, or someone who overcomes a challenge. Her children’s picture books include The Itty Bitty Kitty (Nov 2011) I Think That I Would Like to Be (March 2012) The Itty Bitty Kitty: Mystery At Reflection Pond (Feb 2013) and I Dream That I May One Day Be (Aug. 2013), Itty Bitty Kitty and the Fun Day (May 2016)
Catherine has been featured in Raising Arizona Kids Magazine on the subject of bullying and the Reader House Author Roundtable. She enjoys visiting many elementary schools to read her books and share her illustrations. Catherine and her husband currently live in Arizona where she enjoys painting and traveling back to Australia.
Upon returning to the United States, Catherine studied with local artists while taking classes at Western Washington University and Whatcom Community College. She broadened her interests to various mediums and began experimenting with illustrations and cartooning.
Catherine loves the artistic process and beauty of life which is reflected in everything she writes and paints. Her books tell stories of heroes, the underdog, or someone who overcomes a challenge. Her children’s picture books include The Itty Bitty Kitty (Nov 2011) I Think That I Would Like to Be (March 2012) The Itty Bitty Kitty: Mystery At Reflection Pond (Feb 2013) and I Dream That I May One Day Be (Aug. 2013), Itty Bitty Kitty and the Fun Day (May 2016)
Catherine has been featured in Raising Arizona Kids Magazine on the subject of bullying and the Reader House Author Roundtable. She enjoys visiting many elementary schools to read her books and share her illustrations. Catherine and her husband currently live in Arizona where she enjoys painting and traveling back to Australia.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 20, 2023
Wonderfully sweet!
This was a wonderfully written book with such a sweet lovable character who worked hard to overcome so many challenges our young girls face today. I loved the strong, healthy friendship between the 3 girls, always lifting each other up! We need more books like this for our daughters to read! Very positive and feel good read! This book would be a great read for a mother and young daughter book club!
This was a wonderfully written book with such a sweet lovable character who worked hard to overcome so many challenges our young girls face today. I loved the strong, healthy friendship between the 3 girls, always lifting each other up! We need more books like this for our daughters to read! Very positive and feel good read! This book would be a great read for a mother and young daughter book club!
June 8, 2023
In The Ballerina, Catherine Follestad gracefully choreographs a tale of perseverance, passion, and the transformative power of dreams. Alina, our protagonist, is a blossoming ballerina whose love for the dance form propels her to commit herself wholly to the art. However, when she encounters disheartening outcomes during her practice sessions, self-doubt creeps in, making her question her own abilities.
Intriguingly, it is during these moments of uncertainty that Alina discovers an inspiring connection with the legendary Anna Pavlova. Through a series of surreal dreams, Pavlova visits Alina, imparting her wisdom and guidance to the young dancer. Meanwhile, the discovery of a stunning, feathered vintage ballet costume—a lucky charm in Alina’s view—adds an additional layer of enchantment to the narrative. To further bolster Alina’s journey, a mysterious benefactor leaves her gifts, while a charming young boy provides uplifting encouragement. With this overwhelming support, surely Alina’s ballet performance is destined to soar!
The beauty of the narrative lies in Alina’s metamorphosis into a confident, self-assured dancer, a transformation that mirrors Anna Pavlova’s own journey. Follestad masterfully illustrates how Alina’s relatable circumstances and tenacity parallel Pavlova’s life. As readers, we are reminded of the immense determination and willpower often required to hone exceptional talent from an early age and that such remarkable achievements are indeed attainable with creativity and persistence.
Incorporating a historical figure like Anna Pavlova into the narrative is a genius stroke by Follestad. The manner in which Pavlova is integrated into the storyline allows her to serve as a source of inspiration not only for Alina but also for the readers themselves.
The Ballerina is a captivating and unique exploration of ballet. It serves as an ideal introduction to the art form for young readers while simultaneously providing a beacon of inspiration for any aspiring dancer grappling with self-doubt. With its engaging storyline and relatable characters, this book dances its way into the hearts of its readers, leaving an indelible impression.
Intriguingly, it is during these moments of uncertainty that Alina discovers an inspiring connection with the legendary Anna Pavlova. Through a series of surreal dreams, Pavlova visits Alina, imparting her wisdom and guidance to the young dancer. Meanwhile, the discovery of a stunning, feathered vintage ballet costume—a lucky charm in Alina’s view—adds an additional layer of enchantment to the narrative. To further bolster Alina’s journey, a mysterious benefactor leaves her gifts, while a charming young boy provides uplifting encouragement. With this overwhelming support, surely Alina’s ballet performance is destined to soar!
The beauty of the narrative lies in Alina’s metamorphosis into a confident, self-assured dancer, a transformation that mirrors Anna Pavlova’s own journey. Follestad masterfully illustrates how Alina’s relatable circumstances and tenacity parallel Pavlova’s life. As readers, we are reminded of the immense determination and willpower often required to hone exceptional talent from an early age and that such remarkable achievements are indeed attainable with creativity and persistence.
Incorporating a historical figure like Anna Pavlova into the narrative is a genius stroke by Follestad. The manner in which Pavlova is integrated into the storyline allows her to serve as a source of inspiration not only for Alina but also for the readers themselves.
The Ballerina is a captivating and unique exploration of ballet. It serves as an ideal introduction to the art form for young readers while simultaneously providing a beacon of inspiration for any aspiring dancer grappling with self-doubt. With its engaging storyline and relatable characters, this book dances its way into the hearts of its readers, leaving an indelible impression.
May 31, 2023
The Review
This was an engaging and heartfelt read. The author does an amazing job of connecting with younger readers, giving an honest and emotional look into the mindset of young women as they not only grow but as they pursue their passions in life. The lighthearted pacing of the story and the emotional weight of the protagonist’s struggles instantly draw young readers into the story as the narrative progresses.
To me, the heart of this story rested in the dynamic character development and the almost magical sense of time travel and magical realism that permeated the story. The themes of hard work and making your dreams a reality felt both attainable and inspiring through this magical lens and the mystery surrounding the woman who would appear to the protagonist and the connection she shared with Anna added a touch of mystery and history to the story.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, author Catherine Follestad’s “The Ballerina” is a must-read children’s dance and time travel book that you won’t want to miss. The passion and heart for which the story is told and the relatable characters will have children eagerly taking hold of this book and getting lost in the narrative immediately.
This was an engaging and heartfelt read. The author does an amazing job of connecting with younger readers, giving an honest and emotional look into the mindset of young women as they not only grow but as they pursue their passions in life. The lighthearted pacing of the story and the emotional weight of the protagonist’s struggles instantly draw young readers into the story as the narrative progresses.
To me, the heart of this story rested in the dynamic character development and the almost magical sense of time travel and magical realism that permeated the story. The themes of hard work and making your dreams a reality felt both attainable and inspiring through this magical lens and the mystery surrounding the woman who would appear to the protagonist and the connection she shared with Anna added a touch of mystery and history to the story.
The Verdict
Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, author Catherine Follestad’s “The Ballerina” is a must-read children’s dance and time travel book that you won’t want to miss. The passion and heart for which the story is told and the relatable characters will have children eagerly taking hold of this book and getting lost in the narrative immediately.
November 19, 2025
Book Review: The Ballerina by Catherine Follestad
The Ballerina is a charming and inspiring children’s story that beautifully blends magic, self-discovery, and the timeless joy of pursuing one’s dreams. Catherine Follestad delivers a heartfelt tale that will resonate with young readers, especially those who have ever struggled with confidence or dared to dream big.
At the center of the story is Alina, a young dancer whose love for ballet is growing—but so is her fear of standing out. With an important class performance approaching, her self-doubt threatens to dim her passion. Everything changes when she discovers a mysterious vintage costume in her mother’s shop, one that connects her to a legendary ballerina from long ago.
This magical encounter becomes the turning point in Alina’s journey. Guided by the spirit and wisdom of the prima ballerina, she learns not only the beauty of the art form but also the importance of courage, dedication, and believing in herself.
Follestad’s storytelling is warm and uplifting, capturing the magic of dance and the emotional struggles of young artists. The book gently teaches children that confidence is something we build, passion grows through practice, and sometimes the push we need comes from the most unexpected places.
The Ballerina is a charming and inspiring children’s story that beautifully blends magic, self-discovery, and the timeless joy of pursuing one’s dreams. Catherine Follestad delivers a heartfelt tale that will resonate with young readers, especially those who have ever struggled with confidence or dared to dream big.
At the center of the story is Alina, a young dancer whose love for ballet is growing—but so is her fear of standing out. With an important class performance approaching, her self-doubt threatens to dim her passion. Everything changes when she discovers a mysterious vintage costume in her mother’s shop, one that connects her to a legendary ballerina from long ago.
This magical encounter becomes the turning point in Alina’s journey. Guided by the spirit and wisdom of the prima ballerina, she learns not only the beauty of the art form but also the importance of courage, dedication, and believing in herself.
Follestad’s storytelling is warm and uplifting, capturing the magic of dance and the emotional struggles of young artists. The book gently teaches children that confidence is something we build, passion grows through practice, and sometimes the push we need comes from the most unexpected places.
May 30, 2023
This book was given to me by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
"The Ballerina" is a charming tale that follows the journey of a young girl who dreams of becoming a prima ballerina. The author, Catherine Follestad, has done an excellent job of capturing the emotions and struggles of a young girl who is passionate about pursuing her dreams.
The main character, Alina, is a ballet student who captures the reader's heart. There is also a special visitor who motivates her to attempt her dream. The book also emphasizes the importance of perseverance and believing in oneself.
This book has an enjoyable and heartwarming story that is perfect for young readers. It encourages them that anyone can achieve their dreams with hard work and dedication, . The storyline is engaging and makes the book hard to put down.
"The Ballerina" is a charming tale that follows the journey of a young girl who dreams of becoming a prima ballerina. The author, Catherine Follestad, has done an excellent job of capturing the emotions and struggles of a young girl who is passionate about pursuing her dreams.
The main character, Alina, is a ballet student who captures the reader's heart. There is also a special visitor who motivates her to attempt her dream. The book also emphasizes the importance of perseverance and believing in oneself.
This book has an enjoyable and heartwarming story that is perfect for young readers. It encourages them that anyone can achieve their dreams with hard work and dedication, . The storyline is engaging and makes the book hard to put down.
November 18, 2023
There are not many books these days with ballet as its theme.
The author lets us know that the book is heavily inspired by Anna Pavlova. The book starts with her backstory and life. Reading this inspired me to look up and research more about ballet and Anna.
This is a short story about a little girl that teaches us to never give up, just like the real ballerina it is inspired by. It is fun, short and can be given to young readers who are about 6 and older.
This little book teaches children that anything worthwhile takes time and effort, something that seems to be lacking these days with instant gratification.
All in all i recommend this cute little book.
The author lets us know that the book is heavily inspired by Anna Pavlova. The book starts with her backstory and life. Reading this inspired me to look up and research more about ballet and Anna.
This is a short story about a little girl that teaches us to never give up, just like the real ballerina it is inspired by. It is fun, short and can be given to young readers who are about 6 and older.
This little book teaches children that anything worthwhile takes time and effort, something that seems to be lacking these days with instant gratification.
All in all i recommend this cute little book.
June 8, 2023
"What a great coming-of-age story with positive messages. The Ballerina touches many relevant topics for children today like never giving up, finding ways to grow your confidence, balancing friendships, and not letting others decide who you are and what you can accomplish. This well-written book has a lot of layers sprinkled with some magical time travel. After all, everyone needs a mentor to help them find their true self. This book is ideal for a summer read and not just for teenage girls."
June 24, 2023
This book was incredibly uplifting and gives special attention to something that not only young women struggle with but all of us at one time or another…. confidence. Alina’s journey throughout this book is like a beautiful flower unfolding. Going through every day battles and successes is so encouraging to anyone who reads this book. Highly recommend.
June 18, 2023
This is perfect for the preteens. Builds confidence and can do attitude when needed the most. Alina learns and teaches in emotional and relateable situations. I especially like how Author brings in Anna Pavlova for inspiration and a little magic never hurts.
October 13, 2023
I bought this book to read to my 5 year old daughter who loved it. Great story about a little girl's dream, her hard work and incredible accomplishment! Highly recommend, as it encourages believing in childhood dreams and embracing one's imagination.
November 19, 2024
This story was so beautifully cute. I felt it was a bit rushed but that didn't stop me from enjoying the story anyways. The characters were very real and relatable.
Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews