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| Tallulah's Tutu, by Marilyn Singer and Alexandra Boiger |
Tallulah's Tutu
Written by Marilyn Singer
Illustrated by Alexandra Boiger
Clarion, 2011, Fiction, ages 4-8, Reading level 2.9
Themes:
Ballet, Dance, Lessons, Perseverance
Opening:
"Tallulah just knew she could be a great ballerina -- if only she had a tutu."
Synopsis:
Tallulah may have talent, but what she does not have is a tutu. She begins ballet lessons with one goal in mind. Along the way Tallulah inspires, delights, and sometimes exasperates those around her.
What I Love:
While I have never been partial to ballet or pink, I fell in love with Alexandra Boiger's illustrations the moment I saw them. She enhances the story with dynamic illustrations and diverse page design. Be sure to check out the clever endpapers as well.
Marilyn Singer takes the story beyond the expected stopping point, creating a "button" ending. Her portrayal of Tallulah has surprising depth. It's no wonder this book has spawned four sequels in just two years.
1. Make a tutu pop-up card courtesy Simply Modern Mom or a ballerina paper chain from the Crafty Crow.2. Create a no-sew tutu for your own ballerina from Simply Real Moms. (This one is red like the roses in June.)
3. There's nothing like experiencing ballet in person. Check with local dance companies and performing arts centers. These are often more kid-friendly and less expensive. Plus you may have a better chance to speak with the dancers afterward. Call in advance.
4. Get moving. Books with a dance theme are an instant invitation to add exercise to your day. Play Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker Suite or Billy the Kid by Aaron Copland and create your own dance steps.
Check out all the recommended titles for Perfect Picture Book Friday for May 24, 2013.
Special thanks to Susanna Leonard Hill.
If you love Marilyn Singer and LeUyen Pham, visit A Stick Is an Excellent Thing.
You'll find an additional interview with the author at Kirkus.
