Text and pictures show scenes and steps from "Sleeping Beauty," "Giselle," "Coppelia," "Swan Lake," and "The Nutcracker."

Discover the tales which inspired famous ballets in this selection of twelve stories, retold especially for readers today. A perfect introduction to the famous ballets. Includes Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, Coppelia and Don Quixote. Beautifully produced, with stylish illustrations by Yvonne Gilbert Nanos.

Retellings of seven of the world's greatest ballet stories.

This DK visual guide to ballet history goes beyond other ballet books, with beautiful photography that captures famous dancers and key stories. Discover more than 70 of the most famous ballet dances, from The Nutcracker and Swan Lake to The Rite of Spring. Learn the stories behind renowned companies such as The Royal Ballet and the Bolshoi Ballet. Explore the lives and achievements of dancers across the centuries, such as Margot Fonteyn, Carlos Acosta, and Darcey Bussell. Meet composers and choreographers, from Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky to Matthew Bourne. From its origins at court and the first national ballet companies, to the contemporary scene and extraordinary venues that stage the productions, this book covers an impressive history of ballet and provides an invaluable overview of the subject. Filled with rarely seen photographs covering all the key figures, pieces, and performances, and compelling facts about each dance--the sources they draw from, their production history, and their reception over time--Ballet: The Definitive Illustrated Story is an essential gift for all ballet enthusiasts.

A retelling of "Swan Lake," "The Sleeping Beauty," "The Nutcracker," and seven other tales that evoke the elegance and mystery of the ballet

Beloved by all little girls, ballet stories enchant and open a world of magic. This collection of eight favourite ballet stories is filled with that magic and promise. The stories and sparkling illustrations will delight for years.

Full length ballet stories often tell the tale of kings and queens and peasants and fairies and are inspired by myths and legends. Others reflect historical events or works of literature. This beautifully illustrated book tells about ballet's famous heroes and heroines such as Odette and her swan maidens in Swan Lake, or the magical journey of Clara to the Kingdom of Sweets in The Nutcracker.

Retellings of ten of the most loved stories from the ballet.

Instant New York Times bestselling series opener inspired by prima ballerina and author Misty Copeland's own early experiences in ballet. From prima ballerina and New York Times bestselling author Misty Copeland comes the story of a young Misty, who discovers her love of dance through the ballet Coppélia--a story about a toymaker who devises a villainous plan to bring a doll to life. Misty is so captivated by the tale and its heroine, Swanilda, she decides to audition for the role. But she's never danced ballet before; in fact, this is the very first day of her very first dance class! Though Misty is excited, she's also nervous. But as she learns from her fellow bunheads, she makes wonderful friends who encourage her to do her very best. Misty's nerves quickly fall away, and with a little teamwork, the bunheads put on a show to remember. Featuring the stunning artwork of newcomer Setor Fiadzigbey, Bunheads is an inspiring tale for anyone looking for the courage to try something new.

Does the poise, grace, and beauty of a prima ballerina take your breath away? Ever dreamt of landing that perfect pirouette? Covering everything from basic positions to the finesse of a pas de deux, this inspiring book will help your child pursue the elegant dance form of ballet. Perfect your port de bras and learn how to dance adagio and allegro. You will even find out the best way to look after your ballet shoes and ensure your make up is just right for your first night on stage. Using gorgeous photos of ballet dancers and easy-to-follow instructions, one of the world’s finest ballet dancers Darcey Bussell will teach you various poses, jumps, and exercises, as well as advanced moves and pointework. You will also discover folk and character dancing and read about the great choreographers and composers throughout ballet's history. The Ballet Book beautifully illustrates the world of ballet with captivating notes on classical techniques, the evolution of the dance form, the world’s greatest dancers, and a fascinating look on what goes on behind the scene. Budding ballet dancers, this one's for you!