Little Dancer

This absorbing, heartfelt work uncovers the story of the real dancer behind Degas’s now-iconic sculpture, shedding light on the struggles of late nineteenth-century Parisian life. She is famous throughout the world, but how many know her name? You can admire her figure in Washington, Paris, London, New York, Dresden, or Copenhagen, but where is her grave? We know only her age, fourteen, and the work that she did—because it was already grueling work, at an age when children today are sent to school. In the 1880s, she danced as a “little rat” at the Paris Opera, and what is often a dream for young girls now wasn’t a dream for her. She was fired after several years of intense labor; the director had had enough of her repeated absences. She had been working another job, even two, because the few pennies the Opera paid weren’t enough to keep her and her family fed. She was a model, posing for painters or sculptors—among them Edgar Degas. Drawing on a wealth of historical material as well as her own love of ballet and personal experiences of loss, Camille Laurens presents a compelling, compassionate portrait of Marie van Goethem and the world she inhabited that shows the importance of those who have traditionally been overlooked in the study of art.

Marie dreams of becoming the most famous ballerina in the world. When she joins the ballet school in Paris, she notices a fierce man sitting at the side, sketching the dancers. The man is the painter, Edgar Degas, and his clay model of Marie does indeed make her the most famous dancer of all.

Beginning with the hitherto unknown plaster version of Edgar Degas' Little Dancer, Aged Fourteen, Dr. Gregory Hedberg undertakes a comprehensive re-evaluation of the significance and influence of this work of modern art.

In this soothing, gentle rhyming picture book, author Jennifer Adams bids sweet dreams to the youngest readers who identify as ballerinas by day and tender, sleepy children by night. With luminous art from illustrator Alea Marley, Goodnight, Little Dancer is sure to send little ones to sleep with twirling, dancing dreams. It's time for bed now, little dancer. Time to tell the world goodnight. Let down your bun, shake out your hair. Breathe in, relax, and dim the light.

"Siena Cherson Siegel dreamed of being a ballerina. Her love of movement and dedication to the craft earned her a spot at the School of American Ballet.. Siena has worked hard her whole life to be a professional ballet dancer, then makes the difficult decision to quit dancing and tries to figure out what comes next. But what do you do when you have spent your entire life working toward a goal, having that shape your identity, and then decide it's time to move on? How do you figure out what to do with your life? And how do you figure out who you are?"--

Paris, 1878. Ballet dancer Marie van Goethem is chosen by the unknown artist Edgar Degas to model for his new sculpture: Little Dancer, aged fourteen years. But Marie is much more than she seems. By day she’s a 'little rat' of the opera, contorting her starving body to entertain the bourgeoisie. By night she’s plotting to overthrow the government and reinstate the Paris Commune, to keep a promise she made to her father, a leading Communard who died in the street massacres of 1871. As Marie watches the troubling sculpture of herself come to life in Degas’ hands, she falls further into the intoxicating world of bohemian, Impressionist Paris, a world at odds with the socialist principles she has vowed to uphold. With the fifth Impressionist Exhibition looming, a devastating family secret is uncovered which changes everything for both Marie and Degas. As Degas struggles to finish his sculpture and the police close in on Marie, she must decide where her loyalties lie and act to save herself, her family and the Little Dancer.

"The Little Spanish Dancer" by Madeline Brandeis is a captivating children's book that takes young readers on an enchanting journey into the world of dance, culture, and friendship. The story follows the adventures of young Dolores, a spirited and talented girl living in a picturesque Spanish village. Dolores possesses a deep passion for dancing, and she dreams of becoming a professional dancer one day. When a renowned dance company visits her village, Dolores seizes the opportunity to audition for a spot in the troupe. However, she faces obstacles and challenges along the way, including the doubts of some villagers who believe that dancing is not a suitable pursuit for a young girl. As Dolores embarks on her quest to follow her dreams, she forms a special bond with a traveling circus troupe and its young performer, Pancho. Together, they navigate the joys and trials of pursuing their artistic passions. The story beautifully explores themes of determination, friendship, and the importance of staying true to one's dreams and identity. Madeline Brandeis weaves a tale that is not only rich in storytelling but also celebrates the vibrant culture and traditions of Spain. Through Dolores' journey, readers are introduced to the colorful world of Spanish dance, music, and customs. "The Little Spanish Dancer" is a story of empowerment and self-discovery, where young readers can find inspiration to pursue their own dreams and interests. It emphasizes the idea that with dedication, hard work, and the support of friends and family, one can overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. In summary, "The Little Spanish Dancer" is a heartwarming and culturally rich children's book that encourages readers to embrace their passions, overcome challenges, and celebrate the beauty of different cultures. It remains a cherished story that continues to captivate young imaginations and inspire them to follow their own dreams.