This book was really sweet and my daughter enjoyed it. We really liked the illustrations and how they were sprinkled throughout the story. The ballet shoes at the beginning of each chapter were a nice touch. The story connected with my daughter because she too has taken ballet lessons. I like that Kylie didn’t get the ballet lead and still continues with the practices. I like how she brings her brother to take over the part of the boy who broke his ankle. There are a lot of good lessons in this story.
Dancing Queen is the latest book in Marci Peschke's chapter book series about spunky aspiring beauty queen Kylie Jean Carter. As the title suggests, the story focuses on Kylie Jean's newfound interest in ballet. Not only does she take lessons at the local community center, but she even plans to audition for a professional production of Swan Lake directed by Madame Girard! Kylie Jean desperately wants to dance the lead and be a part of a perfect production, but a few obstacles just might stand in her way. Kylie Jean will need her positive attitude and determination to be a true dancing queen!
Though this book, like the others in the series, focuses somewhat on Kylie Jean's goal of being a beauty queen, the story is by no means shallow. Kylie Jean might be into fashion, but she's not the least bit prissy. The very first chapter of this book shows her out in the garden, digging away in the dirt with her dress on. When challenged by her brother, she simply points out that wearing a dress doesn't slow her down. Nothing slows down this cheerful and optimistic little girl. When she doesn't get her way, she's not a brat, but tries to understand what went wrong. When there is a problem, she looks around for the tools needed to make things better. Beauty queen obsession aside, Kylie Jean is a great role model.
The writing in these books is very simple and straightforward, with no real frills. New chapter book readers will have no trouble settling into the rhythm of Kylie Jean's voice, and girls who love dancing, and dream of being prima ballerinas will love living vicariously through Kylie Jean's Swan Lake experience. A glossary at the back of the book provides opportunities for learning new words and reinforces the reader's understanding of the text. The very last page of the book lists some discussion questions that would be especially useful for classrooms or book clubs.
Kylie Jean: Dancing Queen is part of a larger series, all focusing on Kylie Jean's character. By my count there are now 8 books in the series, and they all look adorable! Based on this particular book, I can definitely say that this is a series that young girls will just eat up. Kylie Jean is spunky, she's sweet, and about as honest as a kid can get. Add in her insatiable need for learning new things, and you've got a little girl that other little girls will love.
In this story Kylie Jean wants the main role in the ballet version of Swan Lake. The story follows her as she practices her heart out and then nervously tries out. Even when she doesn't get the part she was pining for, she shows young readers how to be proud of what you've accomplished anyway. She's a great role model. There are a lot of good lessons in the story, including how to be kind to others. I definitely think this would a great addition to any little ballerina's book shelf.
As I mentioned above, this book hits the mark right before Middle Grade. It's a chapter book, but the chapters are short, the words are moderately easy, and the illustrations help keep readers immersed. This would be prefect for 7-8 year olds who are ready for a chapter book!
Well I do declare, this is a delightfully sweet read for the little dancers we all know and love. The first chapter or two are a bit heavy on southern hospitality, but the story of good friends and ballet quickly takes center stage. Cute illustrations scattered throughout the text. Includes glossary of dance terms, discussion questions, activity ideas.