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Stenetta Anthony Author Interview
Ella Learns to Dance follows a young elephant girl who dreams of being a ballet dancer even when others discourage her. What was the inspiration for your story?
After hearing a story about a professional ballet dancer and her challenges. She was told she did not have the proper body image to be a ballerina.
What educational aspects were important for you to include in this children’s book?
Some of the ideas suggested in the book are: (always be proud of yourself, teach them to deal with frustrations when learning a new skill and how some children can relate to Ella’s story when friends do not always support their dream).
Are there any emotions or memories from your own life that you put into your characters life?
One memory comes from learning modern dance in high school. Since I never considered myself as a graceful dancer. It was often difficult to learn the dance moves, sometimes not wanting to attend the class.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
Ella Learns to Dance is the first book in her series, so I am currently working on the 2nd and 3rd books respectively.
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website
Ella Learns to Dance
Whoever heard of an elephant that does ballet? Ella is an elephant and she loves ballet. When she joins a ballet class she finds out that ballet is harder than she thought. With some perseverance, and a helpful tip, she is well on her way to becoming a graceful ballerina.
Ella Learns to Dance is a charming children’s book following a little elephant as she tries to accomplish her dream of being a ballet dancer. At first her friends make fun of her, which is a little sad, but I think this is something that many children will be able to relate to. Author Stenetta Anthony then shows young readers that they don’t need their friends acceptance in order to pursue their dreams, they just need to believe in themself.
When Ella joins the ballet class the book then shows her struggling, which I thought was another relatable moment for many kids as they often try things and fail the first time. This picture book is a fantastic resource to teach children perseverance, and to accept advice from others.
Ella Learns to Dance is a cute children’s book that will teach kids valuable life lessons and is fun to read. Seeing the cute elephants in the book, especially Ella in her outfit, will ensure kids stay glued to the pages.
ISBN13: 9781685266653
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