Dance, Ballerina is a children’s picture book in the Dear Barbie Golden Look-Look Books line, built around ballet, disappointment, and the courage to take part even when things do not go as hoped. The story begins with a girl writing to Barbie because she is unsure whether to dance in a recital after not receiving the role she wanted, and Barbie responds by telling a similar story about Skipper. Through this gentle frame, the book presents dance not only as performance but also as practice, confidence, friendship, and learning how to handle hurt feelings without giving up too quickly. Its short text and bright Barbie illustrations are suited to young readers who enjoy stories about ballet, self-expression, and small emotional challenges that feel important in childhood.
Author: Cathy Marks
Publisher: Golden Books Publishing Company
Year published: 1995
Number of pages: 24
Age range: 3–8