Funnily enough, I'm docking a star for the reason another reviewer hates the newer editions: gendered roles talking about getting chased by little boys versus other mice (are we starting the "they like you if they're mean" this early?) Mrs. Mouseling is doing most of the housework while Mr. smokes his pipe, I guess?

But the main theme is: enroll your kids in activities so they don't bounce off the walls to and from school and with hard work, will be big in their fields, I guess? ( )

48

Angelina is a pretty little mouse who wants nothing more than to be a ballerina. She dances all the time–at home, at school, even in her dreams. In fact, she's so busy dancing that she forgets all about the other things she's supposed to do, like cleaning her room and joining her family

I would rate this book a 4/5. I mostly like this book, however, there are just a few things that could be improved. I love the idea that this book is portraying: there is a right time and a right place for everything. This is an important lesson for kids to learn at a young age. One reason I think the message could be taken the wrong way is that Angelina does not listen to her parents in the first half of the book because she is too busy dancing or thinking about dance. Towards the end once her dad signs her up for ballet, she starts listening to her parents and doing what they ask her to do. I don't believe Holabird intended it to give the idea to only do what you're told once you have your way, but like I said it may come off that way. Another thing I absolutely love out of this book are the illustrations. In fact, when I was younger the illustrations are what drew me to this book so much. They go above and beyond just telling the story. Each page has so much detail and action that it keeps the readers' interest. For example, at the very end when Angelina became a famous dancer, you could spend an hour looking at the amount of detail put in. There is even a poster with Angelina on it if you look closely. Overall, this book is an inspiration to anyone pursuing a passion that with enough hard work and determination, you can reach your dreams. ( )

This story is and has been a treat for many children, who not only dream of becoming a ballerina but have a passion they would love to pursue.

Angelina is a sweet little mouse who can only think about dancing. Everywhere she goes, her steps turn into spins and leaps. Unfortunately, this does cause some problems, at times, and small chaotic messes. When her parents enroll her in ballet classes, Angelina has found her place and her dancing along with it.

The is such a lovely book and as relevant for children today as it was over thirty years ago. The tale grabs attention as Angelina follows her feet and heart and brings giggles as some moments don't work out as well as they might. Angelina is a mouse with energy and passion, so much so that it's contagious. It only takes a little redirection, and not only do Angelina's dreams come true, but the rest of her life falls into a little more order as well. It's inspiring and a joy to read.

The illustrations are still from Helen Craig and carry the love and emotion as Angelina Ballerina deserves. A little more traditional, they carry a beauty which is often no longer found in picture books and is sure to entice young listeners. I, myself, enjoyed flipping through them a few times and simply enjoying Angelina's story that way.

I received a complimentary copy and enjoyed it so much that I wanted to leave my honest thoughts. ( )