JAKE THE BALLET DOG
Jake still loves the sounds of the orchestra, but this week he’s staying with Allegra, a prima ballerina at the ballet. When she takes Jake behind the scenes of her rehearsals for The Nutcracker, he loves twirling and whirling with the dancers. Jake is dazzled by the sparkling treats, and pretty soon he’s mastered his arabesque and pirouette! But when it comes time for opening night, Jake will have to stay backstage. Watching from the wings can be just as fun, and if he’s good, Jake will get to take his own special bow.
Jake’s new adventure will encourage children’s love of the arts through the story of this beloved ballet. Karen LeFrak is donating her proceeds from Jake the Ballet Dog to the American Ballet Theatre, and the New York City Ballet.
READING LEVEL
Ages 4-8
HARDCOVER
40 pages
PUBLISHER
Walker Books for Young Readers (now Bloomsbury)
October 14, 2008
ILLUSTRATOR
Available at libraries near you!
“Open these books to raise the curtain on the wonderful world of the arts.”
– Mikhail Baryshnikov, dancing legend, choreographer, former Artistic Director of American Ballet Theatre, actor
“Toe shoes, tutus, and a terrier-mix! Jake’s latest foray into the arts is a wonderful introduction to the world of ballet that will jeté into the hearts of children of all ages.”
– Carol-Lynn Parente, former Executive Producer of Sesame Street
“Readers get glimpses of the beloved ballet as Jake interferes with the company’s rehearsals, but the book is really more about ballet in general than it is about The Nutcracker in particular. The stylish illustrations show the work of the improbably patient ballet master and the dancers as they try to resist the irrepressible pooch’s efforts to join them onstage.”
– School Library Journal
“Jake, the lucky dog! His exciting adventure continues at the ballet, bringing both dog lovers and dance lovers together at last! This is a joy to read, sharing insight into the magic and mystery of all that happens behind the curtain. Bravo!”
– Julie Kent, former principal dancer of American Ballet Theatre