Kittina Ballerina's Dance-Along Adventures

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Kit the cat appears to have everything she needs in her life: food, friends, shelter. But Kit nonetheless feels as though something is missing, and that void draws her to one particular house in Pirouette Pines night after night. When she least expects it, a small opening appears, inviting Kit into the house to meet a magical mirror that possesses the wisdom for which Kit is searching. And after a time, Kit discovers that her personal dream has grown into something that can be shared with others, as well. 

This charming addition to the Once Upon a Dance collection introduces readers to Kittina Ballerina and her transition from being a quintessential community cat to a feline with a heart full of dance. Anthropomorphic qualities are found in Kit and all the other animals in the story, which enhance the magical nature of the storytelling. Additionally, the illustrations are soft and whimsical, incorporating blues, purples, and yellows to emphasize the feelings of night and of fairy tale imaginings. 

The narrative itself is clear and engaging, and it is best suited to young elementary school-aged readers due to the length and complexity of the tale. Similar to other installments in the Once Upon a Dance collection, Kit’s narrative is augmented by images of Ballerina Konora as she brings the story to life with her body. 

Written and visual cues are included to help guide readers to imitate and expand upon Ballerina Konora’s movements as they engage with the story themselves. Uplifting and inspirational, this is a quality addition to library collections for young readers with the desire to move and dance.

—Mary Lanni, Librarian Reviewer

...A Tail of Twirls tells the origin story of the cute, charismatic, and cat-tastic dance teacher, Kittina (known as "Kit" in her younger years), previously featured in Ready Set Dance. Both books exist in the whimsical universe of Once Upon a Dance, which advocates for and celebrates the performing arts, particularly ballet and dance!  

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It's beautiful! You can really feel that this is how the authors (a mother-daughter team) feel about dance as well. It's a gift to give the world! It's something that changed their lives for the better, and they want to share it with others! 

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We said something similar when we reviewed Ballerina Wisdom (also by Once Upon a Dance), but a lot of us see or think of teachers, gurus, experts, and professionals and think that they were always teachers, gurus, experts, and professionals—people who know everything and can do anything. The truth is, they had to start somewhere too (just like us). Kit/Kittina had to start somewhere too, not as an expert or professional, but as a student with very little knowledge, skill, or experience. However, she became knowledgeable, skillful, and experienced through practice, dedication, hard work, and a willingness to learn.
 

That's really special!...   

—Outstanding Creator 

Once Upon a Dance’s captivating children’s picture book A Tail of Twirls: Kittina and the Starlight Ballerina follows an inquisitive cat as she makes a mysterious discovery. 

In Pirouette Pines, small cat Kit peers through the dirty window of an abandoned dance studio. After a desperate initial attempt to enter, Kit spots an opening. The dance photos on the walls fascinate her as soon as she walks in. Curiosity gets the best of her, and she attempts to mimic some of the dance positions. 

Her entire world changes in an instant when a voice—coming from a very unexpected source behind her—asks why she has been there every night...

A Tail of Twirls: Kittina and the Starlight Ballerina engages readers in fun and unique activities while they read along.

The story effectively mixes mystery and humor, and its vibrant illustrations and photo images will hold any child’s interest throughout the entire book. 

Kids learn to help both themselves and their communities from Kit’s example. This is a novel that will spark lively discussions on sharing, resilience, supporting others, and pursuing one’s dreams.

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Each element of the photos has been carefully considered to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The layout is simple, fluid, and easy to read while providing excellent hints about the plot’s progression.

Once Upon a Dance’s A Tail of Twirls: Kittina and the Starlight Ballerina is lengthy enough to deliver a complete and well-developed story without making it feel overwhelming—perfect for reading with children.

—Chanticleer Book Reviews