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Dance Stance: Beginning Ballet for Young Dancers with Ballerina Konora
Aspiring dancers adore the clever mix of wit, wisdom, anecdotes, and how-to instruction from a professional ballerina. Throughout the award-winning debut of ballet-inspiration, young readers explore posture while standing on both feet, tiptoes, and one leg. A tutu-wearing kitty sidekick joins Ballerina Konora and friends, adding humor and lighthearted encouragement.
Brought to you by the mother-daugther team of Once Upon a Dance, with over 20 awards for their Dance-It-Out! and Dancing Shapes series for younger audiences.
Brought to you by the mother-daugther team of Once Upon a Dance, with over 20 awards for their Dance-It-Out! and Dancing Shapes series for younger audiences.
63 pages, Hardcover
First published May 5, 2022
7 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 - 12 of 12 reviews
May 3, 2022
Dance is more than just the beautiful shapes that appear across a stage while set to accompanying music; in order for dancers to truly shine, the basics must first be mastered and perfected. Ballet requires very careful body awareness in order to be properly presented, and this new book by the mother/daughter Once Upon a Dance team does an excellent job connecting readers to their bodies in easily digestible ways. Written as a non-fiction book, it first includes a table of contents and a message from Ballerina Konora before the bulk of the information is presented. Each section focuses on one element of the foundational “dance stance,” and they all build upon one another as the book continues. From posture to turnout to relevé, young dancers will learn where their bodies must be in space in order to perform the featured moves correctly while avoiding injury. Though a great deal of information is included in this book, it is straightforward and invites readers to come and go as they need. This supportive and encouraging design is a hallmark of the Once Upon a Dance canon, and readers of all ages will appreciate this kind approach. Illustrations in the style of Molly Idle complement the text beautifully, incorporating lots of peach, pink, and purple into each image. Even readers who are not quite ready for the depth of the text will nonetheless be able to connect with it thanks to these stunning visuals. This inspiring and informational book is a valuable addition to any dancer’s library and it is a complement to healthy posture practice for readers of all ages, as well.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.
I received a copy of this book from the author and I chose to leave this review.
August 2, 2022
A book with a cute little cat ballerina on tour at Blackberry Book Tours? Yes, please! Pink! Beautiful. Important.
I had at least 16 years of ballet classes. Ballet is really a lifestyle, not something you can just stop. And ballet posture is for life. There is not a single moment you throw yourself on a chair or stand up without class after you learn ballet posture as a little girl.
I love this book! But what I love the most is that it says that ballet doesn't need to be everything or nothing. It's an inclusive book, not that old ballet style with forceful techniques that gets little girls thinking they are never enough. To be classic, and classy, it doesn't need to keep the terrifying and old story. That old style of ballet has no space anymore... The same kind that used to point out that people are too old to start classes. Or too fat. Dance Stance has the beautiful and classic legacy of ballet with a humanistic approach. There is even a picture at the end of a class of adults called Sisterhood of the Pink Tights. Most of them are over 70 years old.
Through beautiful illustrations and amazing metaphors, the book shows techniques of the "dance stance" that are perfect for little girls and everybody who loves ballet. Recommended! Five stars!
I had at least 16 years of ballet classes. Ballet is really a lifestyle, not something you can just stop. And ballet posture is for life. There is not a single moment you throw yourself on a chair or stand up without class after you learn ballet posture as a little girl.
I love this book! But what I love the most is that it says that ballet doesn't need to be everything or nothing. It's an inclusive book, not that old ballet style with forceful techniques that gets little girls thinking they are never enough. To be classic, and classy, it doesn't need to keep the terrifying and old story. That old style of ballet has no space anymore... The same kind that used to point out that people are too old to start classes. Or too fat. Dance Stance has the beautiful and classic legacy of ballet with a humanistic approach. There is even a picture at the end of a class of adults called Sisterhood of the Pink Tights. Most of them are over 70 years old.
Through beautiful illustrations and amazing metaphors, the book shows techniques of the "dance stance" that are perfect for little girls and everybody who loves ballet. Recommended! Five stars!
May 20, 2022
A very nice book on the very beginnings of ballet. It is not overwhelming for a young beginner because it concentrates on the first foundation - the stance. A very good introduction for someone who might be thinking this is what they want to do and can try some very basic movements, which are explained well. I also loved the ending where the author points out you can start at ANY age!
I received an e-ARC of this book from the PW/PLA Grab-a-Galley. Thank you to Publisher's Weekly and Once Upon a Dance for letting me read this book.
I received an e-ARC of this book from the PW/PLA Grab-a-Galley. Thank you to Publisher's Weekly and Once Upon a Dance for letting me read this book.
May 10, 2022
Warm, appealing artwork. Clear, simple, easy to understand instructions and very supportive.
April 23, 2022
I received an e-ARC of this book from the Publisher's Weekly PLA Grab-a-Galley event. Thank you to Publisher's Weekly and Once Upon a Dance for this opportunity.
This was cute with great illustrations. I'd put it in the age 8-12 grouping - it's not a picture book but the pictures are cute and well done. This book explains the basics of ballet stances, with helpful hints from Ballerina Konora. She also has special messages for the kids inside.
This was cute with great illustrations. I'd put it in the age 8-12 grouping - it's not a picture book but the pictures are cute and well done. This book explains the basics of ballet stances, with helpful hints from Ballerina Konora. She also has special messages for the kids inside.
August 3, 2022
Posture and position with encouraging words and a personal touch are only a few nuggets of goodness inside these pages.
This book is all about dance stance, and while that might sound simple, there's quite a bit to it. Starting with a few, personal thoughts to the reader, the chapters then dive into the various aspects and hints to create the basic stance for ballet. It describes the importance in paying attention to positioning, while explaining exactly how that is achieved and what to look out for. There are also more than a couple short letters from ballet dancers, which offer thoughts and personal insights into dancing. And there is more than a little support and enthusiasm along the way.
This is written as if the author is directly talking to the reader, which gives it a very personal atmosphere. The reader learns exactly how to hold their feet, legs, and other parts of their body through very exact descriptions, which are accompanied by quite a few fun comparisons (zipping pants, leaning in to smell a huge pot of spaghetti). I was glad to see that it's also explained why these positions are important. The text is kept fairly short in a usual earlier chapter book style. While much of it is simple to read, there were several sections, where the writing is better geared for slightly older (lower middle grade) audiences. So, this may fit better for a slightly older audience (ages 7 to 10) in many cases.
The illustrations are full of positive vibes, add a touch of humor, and keep a perfect-ballet-feel thanks to the pastels and soft lines. These are fun to flip through, and they do offer assistance in understanding the positions described in the text, when necessary.
To top everything off, the letters from other ballerinas give words of encouragement and add a very, nice touch. Readers will realize that ballerinas, who have already been dancing/learning for awhile, are just like them. Plus, the thoughts and concerns are ones they themselves might have, at one time or another. The reader feels as if they're being embraced into the group and are truly welcome to the ballet realm. I received a complimentary copy and loved the personal touch.
This book is all about dance stance, and while that might sound simple, there's quite a bit to it. Starting with a few, personal thoughts to the reader, the chapters then dive into the various aspects and hints to create the basic stance for ballet. It describes the importance in paying attention to positioning, while explaining exactly how that is achieved and what to look out for. There are also more than a couple short letters from ballet dancers, which offer thoughts and personal insights into dancing. And there is more than a little support and enthusiasm along the way.
This is written as if the author is directly talking to the reader, which gives it a very personal atmosphere. The reader learns exactly how to hold their feet, legs, and other parts of their body through very exact descriptions, which are accompanied by quite a few fun comparisons (zipping pants, leaning in to smell a huge pot of spaghetti). I was glad to see that it's also explained why these positions are important. The text is kept fairly short in a usual earlier chapter book style. While much of it is simple to read, there were several sections, where the writing is better geared for slightly older (lower middle grade) audiences. So, this may fit better for a slightly older audience (ages 7 to 10) in many cases.
The illustrations are full of positive vibes, add a touch of humor, and keep a perfect-ballet-feel thanks to the pastels and soft lines. These are fun to flip through, and they do offer assistance in understanding the positions described in the text, when necessary.
To top everything off, the letters from other ballerinas give words of encouragement and add a very, nice touch. Readers will realize that ballerinas, who have already been dancing/learning for awhile, are just like them. Plus, the thoughts and concerns are ones they themselves might have, at one time or another. The reader feels as if they're being embraced into the group and are truly welcome to the ballet realm. I received a complimentary copy and loved the personal touch.
May 12, 2022
Ballet begins with learning how to stand. That sounds much easier than it actually is. From knowing the proper foot placement to being fully aware of one’s own spine, finding the right stance is not only essential but promotes good health. A proper stance, as the author points out, isn’t only for dancers. People of all ages can benefit from learning how to stand correctly. Broken down into simple steps with beautiful illustrations, the author and illustrator have handed readers everything they need to know to literally take the first step into ballet.
Dance Stance, Beginning Ballet for Young Dancers, by Once Upon a Dance and illustrated by Stella Maris Mongodi, is an incredibly informative book that will be useful to every reader whether they dance or not. The illustrations lend themselves perfectly to the narrative and provide comical moments throughout the book. It is worth noting that this book appears to be for younger readers, but the vocabulary and sentence structure is more appropriate for upper elementary and beyond.
I was especially impressed with the snippets of advice from a ballerina placed strategically throughout the book. These notes are right on target with the narrative and give readers an insight into the discipline a ballerina must maintain. I am not a dancer, but I appreciated these sections of the book; they served to add to the authors’ message.
Dance Stance, Beginning Ballet for Young Dancers, by Once Upon a Dance (Ballerina Konora and Teacher Terrel) and illustrated by Stella Maris Mongodi, is a short read that I enjoyed and recommend it to anyone curious about becoming a ballerina or improving their own posture. This book would make the perfect gift for anyone who is thinking of studying ballet. It is full of fantastic advice for readers of all ages.
Dance Stance, Beginning Ballet for Young Dancers, by Once Upon a Dance and illustrated by Stella Maris Mongodi, is an incredibly informative book that will be useful to every reader whether they dance or not. The illustrations lend themselves perfectly to the narrative and provide comical moments throughout the book. It is worth noting that this book appears to be for younger readers, but the vocabulary and sentence structure is more appropriate for upper elementary and beyond.
I was especially impressed with the snippets of advice from a ballerina placed strategically throughout the book. These notes are right on target with the narrative and give readers an insight into the discipline a ballerina must maintain. I am not a dancer, but I appreciated these sections of the book; they served to add to the authors’ message.
Dance Stance, Beginning Ballet for Young Dancers, by Once Upon a Dance (Ballerina Konora and Teacher Terrel) and illustrated by Stella Maris Mongodi, is a short read that I enjoyed and recommend it to anyone curious about becoming a ballerina or improving their own posture. This book would make the perfect gift for anyone who is thinking of studying ballet. It is full of fantastic advice for readers of all ages.
August 1, 2022
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!
I gave this book 5 stars out of 5!
The full review as well as a Dutch version can be found on my blog:
talesfromthedragonslair.be
Follow me on Facebook || Instagram || Pinterest
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!
I gave this book 5 stars out of 5!
The full review as well as a Dutch version can be found on my blog:
talesfromthedragonslair.be
Follow me on Facebook || Instagram || Pinterest
August 3, 2022
Dance Stance is a cute story that teaches kids about ballet.
It's more of a beginner look at how to find your "dance stance" before moving on to more difficult moves. The book provides adorable illustrations to help guide, along with tips and tricks and notes from a real ballerina. And while ballet seems like it's probably one of the most difficult types of dance, this book makes it seem like it could be fun (even if it's not done on a more serious/professional level) and relatively easy to get started with.
I think this book will appeal more to little girls, but little boys can read it and enjoy it as well. A delightful book for young readers.
5 stars!
It's more of a beginner look at how to find your "dance stance" before moving on to more difficult moves. The book provides adorable illustrations to help guide, along with tips and tricks and notes from a real ballerina. And while ballet seems like it's probably one of the most difficult types of dance, this book makes it seem like it could be fun (even if it's not done on a more serious/professional level) and relatively easy to get started with.
I think this book will appeal more to little girls, but little boys can read it and enjoy it as well. A delightful book for young readers.
5 stars!
August 5, 2022
A cute book, beautifully illustrated, about one of the essential ballet basis: posture.
The right posture not only sustains the whole body in ballet and opens space for the legs and movements to be precisely done, as keep you gracious and free of lesions.
Dance Stance makes the right posture easy for kids to understand, with illustrations and descriptions that kids will relate to and have fun with.
Highly recommended! 5 stars!
The right posture not only sustains the whole body in ballet and opens space for the legs and movements to be precisely done, as keep you gracious and free of lesions.
Dance Stance makes the right posture easy for kids to understand, with illustrations and descriptions that kids will relate to and have fun with.
Highly recommended! 5 stars!
February 15, 2023
After reading another one of Once Upon A Dance's books, I knew I had to check out more of what they had to offer in their collection! Dance Stance is a great at home resource for new ballerinas hoping to practice the building blocks that they need to be a ballerina. As a dance teacher myself, I am always hoping that my ballerinas will practice and dance at home and with this book, there is no doubt that they will be encouraged to do the steps and positions right along with Ballerina Konora!
August 5, 2022
“Dance Stance” is an adorably illustrated informational book that introduces children to ballet. It’s like a high interest instruction manual with vivid imagery that enables the reader to imagine themselves as a dancer. In addition there are journal entries detailing the dance experiences of a young ballerina. Overall it’s a cute read for middle to upper elementary aged kids.
Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 reviews