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Ready Set Dance: Getting Ready for Your First Dance Class
Meet Quinn Hops and Bella Beak, the most adorable duo to ever don ballet slippers!
As the studio doors swing open, their hearts flutter with anticipation. It's their very first dance class!
Will wobbly toes lead to whimsy, wiggles, or woes? Find out in the charming introduction to the world of dance and the award-winning collection of movement books by Once Upon a Dance. Perfect for ages 3+.
As the studio doors swing open, their hearts flutter with anticipation. It's their very first dance class!
Will wobbly toes lead to whimsy, wiggles, or woes? Find out in the charming introduction to the world of dance and the award-winning collection of movement books by Once Upon a Dance. Perfect for ages 3+.
36 pages, Hardcover
Published May 21, 2024
5 people want to read
About the author
Once Upon a Dance
50 books121 followersTerrel is a dance educator and storyteller who believes in the transformative power of movement. Through her passion project, Once Upon a Dance, she’s published 42 interactive children’s books that weave whimsical stories with joyful movement.
With her daughter—a former Pacific Northwest Ballet Professional Division student—as the featured ballerina, Terrel brings movement into storytime, encouraging creativity, confidence, and self-expression in young readers.
Each book invites kids to stretch, twirl, leap, and imagine alongside positive characters—from dancing cats to ballerina zombies. Whether reading with a caregiver or moving along in the classroom, children are gently guided to explore feelings, movement, and connection through play.
Once Upon a Dance was named a Top 10 Author by the Outstanding Creator Awards for three consecutive years (2022–2024). The books have earned over 60 book awards—including 14 first-place honors, more than 3,000 five-star reviews, a BEST IN SHOW, and a coveted Kirkus Reviews Starred Review.
Discover the collection at www.OnceUponADance.com or follow their journey on social media.
With her daughter—a former Pacific Northwest Ballet Professional Division student—as the featured ballerina, Terrel brings movement into storytime, encouraging creativity, confidence, and self-expression in young readers.
Each book invites kids to stretch, twirl, leap, and imagine alongside positive characters—from dancing cats to ballerina zombies. Whether reading with a caregiver or moving along in the classroom, children are gently guided to explore feelings, movement, and connection through play.
Once Upon a Dance was named a Top 10 Author by the Outstanding Creator Awards for three consecutive years (2022–2024). The books have earned over 60 book awards—including 14 first-place honors, more than 3,000 five-star reviews, a BEST IN SHOW, and a coveted Kirkus Reviews Starred Review.
Discover the collection at www.OnceUponADance.com or follow their journey on social media.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
June 4, 2024
This book is an adorably illustrated story about 2 young friends getting ready for their first dance class! Would be a great book for youngsters about to begin their dancing career. I loved the illustrations captured in calming colors and incredible detail. If I have one critique, as a first grade teacher, I wish the names weren’t in all capital letters.
June 4, 2024
I throughly enjoyed reading Ready Set Dance for its engaging content and illustrations. It is entertaining and refreshing to see animals depict different moves in the story. A good story to teach young children about different body movements and dance steps.
June 23, 2024
This is a delightful, inspiring and informative picture book for any children starting out with dancing.
Quinn and Bella are two youngsters about to venture into their first foray of dancing but understandably are nervous and don't know what to expect.
The book follows them on their journey as they learn about ballet and what will happen, and their fears are taken away as they discover a love for dance and fun. The illustrations are gorgeous and the whole book filled me with happiness. It made me want to dust off my childhood ballet slippers and have a go again!
There are questions and activities throughout as well as a certificate and some puzzles at the end.
This would be a lovely story for children aged 3-7 who want to start ballet but maybe worry that they won't know what to do.
All proceeds from the sale of this book are donated to charity so grab yourself a copy if you know a budding dancer!
I received an ARC copy of this book from @blackberrybookt and look forward to reading some of the authors other stories.
Quinn and Bella are two youngsters about to venture into their first foray of dancing but understandably are nervous and don't know what to expect.
The book follows them on their journey as they learn about ballet and what will happen, and their fears are taken away as they discover a love for dance and fun. The illustrations are gorgeous and the whole book filled me with happiness. It made me want to dust off my childhood ballet slippers and have a go again!
There are questions and activities throughout as well as a certificate and some puzzles at the end.
This would be a lovely story for children aged 3-7 who want to start ballet but maybe worry that they won't know what to do.
All proceeds from the sale of this book are donated to charity so grab yourself a copy if you know a budding dancer!
I received an ARC copy of this book from @blackberrybookt and look forward to reading some of the authors other stories.
June 4, 2024
What a sweet read about a group of friends getting ready to experience their first dance class together! The illustrations are brilliantly executed and bring a very whimsical feel to the book. Beautiful story with a positive message about being excited to try new things!
May 30, 2024
This is another delightful book from once upon a dance. Each book is a standalone and this one is great for young children preparing to take their first ballet class. It gives kids an idea of what to expect when they go to a dance studio for the first time. I love the messages about being brave and creative, also that it’s good to try new things and OK if you don’t know what you are doing at first. Beautiful illustrations and fun characters. There are also some great tips for parents getting ready to send their child off to a class for the first time. I highly recommend this charming book!
June 4, 2024
The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
3rd June 2024
TITLE: Ready Set Dance
AUTHOR: One Upon a Dance
Star Rating: 5
‘Packed full of fun and highly accessible, this is wonderful book for helping children to feel comfortable when they first start dance lessons. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
Over the years, I have enjoyed a number of books by this author but, I must say, this is the best yet. It’s the story of a chicken and a frog attending a first dance class. Kittina (a cat!) is the instructor for the day and she helps them in so many ways, not just helping them to dance, but also showing them how to be ‘prepared’ to dance.
There were so many elements to this story I enjoyed. Firstly, there’s a lot of humour in it which I felt was often lacking in the other ‘Once Upon a Dance’ books. I particularly liked how Kittina helped her new students to understand how long a dance lesson lasts – the time it takes to eat 10 plates of spaghetti, or put away that huge pile of clothes in your room, or to blow a hundred and forty-three ridiculously big bubbles in your bath – excellent fun! Also, as always with Once Upon a Dance books, the illustrations are top notch; possibly even a notch higher! But most of all, I liked the message – that even the teacher is still learning, that you don’t need an expensive dance costume when you first start, and that it’s okay to be pretty bad at the beginning; don’t worry, you will get better at it.
I’m not much of a dancer myself, but I am a mum. So I spend A LOT of time taking my children to lessons – hockey, tennis, football – it’s a long list, so I know kids can be very nervous when they start a new activity. So I’m confident a book of this nature would be FAB to give to a child who’s about start dance lessons. Not only is it educational, but it’s also funny too, accessibly written, superbly designed, and the message is spot on. There’s even a Tips for Grown Ups page at the back! It seems the author’s thought of everything!
‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
3rd June 2024
TITLE: Ready Set Dance
AUTHOR: One Upon a Dance
Star Rating: 5
‘Packed full of fun and highly accessible, this is wonderful book for helping children to feel comfortable when they first start dance lessons. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
Over the years, I have enjoyed a number of books by this author but, I must say, this is the best yet. It’s the story of a chicken and a frog attending a first dance class. Kittina (a cat!) is the instructor for the day and she helps them in so many ways, not just helping them to dance, but also showing them how to be ‘prepared’ to dance.
There were so many elements to this story I enjoyed. Firstly, there’s a lot of humour in it which I felt was often lacking in the other ‘Once Upon a Dance’ books. I particularly liked how Kittina helped her new students to understand how long a dance lesson lasts – the time it takes to eat 10 plates of spaghetti, or put away that huge pile of clothes in your room, or to blow a hundred and forty-three ridiculously big bubbles in your bath – excellent fun! Also, as always with Once Upon a Dance books, the illustrations are top notch; possibly even a notch higher! But most of all, I liked the message – that even the teacher is still learning, that you don’t need an expensive dance costume when you first start, and that it’s okay to be pretty bad at the beginning; don’t worry, you will get better at it.
I’m not much of a dancer myself, but I am a mum. So I spend A LOT of time taking my children to lessons – hockey, tennis, football – it’s a long list, so I know kids can be very nervous when they start a new activity. So I’m confident a book of this nature would be FAB to give to a child who’s about start dance lessons. Not only is it educational, but it’s also funny too, accessibly written, superbly designed, and the message is spot on. There’s even a Tips for Grown Ups page at the back! It seems the author’s thought of everything!
‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
May 12, 2024
A child’s first dance class can be both nerve-wracking and exciting, especially if they do not have a sibling or friend to serve as a model of someone who has taken class before. In this book, friends Bella Beak and Quinn Hopps head to their first ballet class together and learn exactly what they need to do to succeed. From knowing the length of class to donning the appropriate clothing and hairstyles, Bella, Quinn, and their companions move, sway, and discover a delightful new world of expression through the beauty of dance.
This is a beautifully designed book that introduces young children to their first dance class in an accessible and charming way. The characters are all anthropomorphic animals, which helps readers to visualize the diversity one might find in a dance class. Within the narrative, all the important elements of a dance class for young children are included. Nearly any question a young dancer might have for their first ballet class—and some they may have never considered—are answered within the pages of this book. Likewise, questions parents might ask are answered at the end of the book, providing readers of all ages with a comprehensive guide for ballet classes before they ever set foot in the studio.
While this book does not follow the same structure as the other stories in the Once Upon a Dance series, it is nonetheless successful at educating and entertaining young readers while encouraging movement simply through the use of clever illustrative and textual techniques. Bright, cheerful colors bring the characters to life, and young readers will appreciate the many secret additions to the illustrations that are not directly a part of the narrative. At the end of the book, readers find extension activities they can complete that can help to make dance class even more fun. The extensive expertise of the authors comes through in this book, and it is an excellent tool for any dance teacher to share with fledgling students and their families.
This is a beautifully designed book that introduces young children to their first dance class in an accessible and charming way. The characters are all anthropomorphic animals, which helps readers to visualize the diversity one might find in a dance class. Within the narrative, all the important elements of a dance class for young children are included. Nearly any question a young dancer might have for their first ballet class—and some they may have never considered—are answered within the pages of this book. Likewise, questions parents might ask are answered at the end of the book, providing readers of all ages with a comprehensive guide for ballet classes before they ever set foot in the studio.
While this book does not follow the same structure as the other stories in the Once Upon a Dance series, it is nonetheless successful at educating and entertaining young readers while encouraging movement simply through the use of clever illustrative and textual techniques. Bright, cheerful colors bring the characters to life, and young readers will appreciate the many secret additions to the illustrations that are not directly a part of the narrative. At the end of the book, readers find extension activities they can complete that can help to make dance class even more fun. The extensive expertise of the authors comes through in this book, and it is an excellent tool for any dance teacher to share with fledgling students and their families.
October 4, 2024
The Perfect Beginner Ballet Story
A very sweet story with beautiful and whimsical illustrations that tells the story of Bella, Quinn and their friends on their first day of ballet class. Follow along as they take you through the ballet studio and meet their wonderful new dance teacher, Miss Kittina. The students learn so many new things, like how to prepare for class, the special outfits and shoes they wear, and basic ballet positions.
I like how the author emphasizes the fact that no one is perfect on their first day of class (or ever, as there is always more to learn in the world of dance!), and feeling awkward or clumsy is totally normal. It's important to be patient with yourself and learn at your own pace, without comparing yourself to other dancers. The most important thing is that you're trying your best and simply having fun dancing!
This would make a perfect gift for a new little dancer. It's very relatable and entertaining with very cute and friendly characters. It encourages children to interact with the story by following along with the ballet movements as demonstrated.
Order your copy today and get your little one excited about their new ballet journey!
A very sweet story with beautiful and whimsical illustrations that tells the story of Bella, Quinn and their friends on their first day of ballet class. Follow along as they take you through the ballet studio and meet their wonderful new dance teacher, Miss Kittina. The students learn so many new things, like how to prepare for class, the special outfits and shoes they wear, and basic ballet positions.
I like how the author emphasizes the fact that no one is perfect on their first day of class (or ever, as there is always more to learn in the world of dance!), and feeling awkward or clumsy is totally normal. It's important to be patient with yourself and learn at your own pace, without comparing yourself to other dancers. The most important thing is that you're trying your best and simply having fun dancing!
This would make a perfect gift for a new little dancer. It's very relatable and entertaining with very cute and friendly characters. It encourages children to interact with the story by following along with the ballet movements as demonstrated.
Order your copy today and get your little one excited about their new ballet journey!
June 5, 2024
Brief summary: Bella and Quinn excitedly attend their very first ballet class, where their teacher, Kittina, patiently demonstrates basic positions. They practice in front of a mirror using the barre and end the lesson learning to bow and curtsy. They depart with enthusiasm, anticipating next week’s class.
Comments: Once Upon A Dance is a mother-and-daughter team that writes dance-themed books that inspire movement.
As the authors painted the scene of the first lesson, I could feel the students' excitement as they entered the studio, experiencing the very beginning of a love for ballet dancing.
Stella Maris Mongodi, the illustrator, brought this picture book to life with her expressive and fun depiction of the animal students and teacher in the dance studio.
The illustrations were created digitally using Procreate and Studioclip.
Rating: 4.5/5 📗📗📗📗1/2
Comments: Once Upon A Dance is a mother-and-daughter team that writes dance-themed books that inspire movement.
As the authors painted the scene of the first lesson, I could feel the students' excitement as they entered the studio, experiencing the very beginning of a love for ballet dancing.
Stella Maris Mongodi, the illustrator, brought this picture book to life with her expressive and fun depiction of the animal students and teacher in the dance studio.
The illustrations were created digitally using Procreate and Studioclip.
Rating: 4.5/5 📗📗📗📗1/2
June 7, 2024
Firstly let me start by saying not only did u review this book but so did my 7 year old daughter. After we read it and spoke on the appearance of the books I asked her some general book review questions. Here’s what we thought about this book. We both love the colors, character design and general illustrations of the book. Favorite characters Kittina and Quinn. We both enjoyed how this book provided the mechanisms of basic dance but also captured the whimsy. My daughter loved the interactive parts of the book and was inspired over all to try dance. The discussion and interactions were easy to follow and understand and there’s a parent’s portion at the end for extra information. My daughter had another book already by Once Upon a Dance and is happy to now have this one in a library too.
I received this book as an arc reader for review and I am voluntarily giving my honest opinion.
I received this book as an arc reader for review and I am voluntarily giving my honest opinion.
June 4, 2024
I received an advanced review copy of this book to review for Blackberry Book Tours.
This is an adorable picture book, aimed at children who are preparing for their first dance class. The general design of the book is colourful and cute, and the story is fun and easy to read, with charming illustrations and characters that children will warm to. There's also a certificate, and some activities to try out. I think that aspiring young dancers will love this book, and it will definitely motivate them to dance.
Thank you to Blackberry Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
This is an adorable picture book, aimed at children who are preparing for their first dance class. The general design of the book is colourful and cute, and the story is fun and easy to read, with charming illustrations and characters that children will warm to. There's also a certificate, and some activities to try out. I think that aspiring young dancers will love this book, and it will definitely motivate them to dance.
Thank you to Blackberry Book Tours, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
May 27, 2024
Enjoyable soft toned art that involved the reader in its playful scenery.
The author did well with including the reader on the first page.
Bonus materials in the back of the book did relate to the story.
In addition, tips on what could be needed for when you attend your first lesson.
A tale that would be loved by all beginners in ballet.
The author did well with including the reader on the first page.
Bonus materials in the back of the book did relate to the story.
In addition, tips on what could be needed for when you attend your first lesson.
A tale that would be loved by all beginners in ballet.
May 9, 2024
I can't wait for this one to arrive!!!! Already gave 5 stars because it's SO cute and beautiful and I already love it!!!! I bought it in the pre-order, and I'm highly anxious waiting for Ready Set Dance to arrive!
Kittina 😻
Kittina 😻
June 20, 2024
“It’s their first day, and they’re having lots of fun.”
“Once Upon a Dance,” authors have done it again. It’s a joy to hear how young dancers learn about the first days of dance class. The story was entertaining and the illustrations brought the spirit of the story to life.
“Once Upon a Dance,” authors have done it again. It’s a joy to hear how young dancers learn about the first days of dance class. The story was entertaining and the illustrations brought the spirit of the story to life.
May 21, 2025
Such a fun, beautifully illustrated book introducing kids to the joy of dancing. The different character animals are so cute and playful -- it's the kind of book I would've read over and over again as a child.
June 5, 2024
This was so cute and I loved the artwork. I liked how different shapes and sizes were represented and we got to learn about different dance moves. Adorable!
April 29, 2025
Loved reading this book to my little one. The art is adorable and it’s very funny. I danced as a kid so it brought back great memories!
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May 29, 2025cute first story book about dance
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews