What little girl doesn't dream of becoming a ballerina-of tutus and slippers, pink ribbons, and recitals. In this beautiful gem of a book, we follow a promising young dancer as she goes through her routine, from doing her hair and learning how to wear pointe shoes to teaching some basics to an even younger dancer. Photographer Nancy Ellison has captured the fantasy, while former American Ballet Theatre principal dancer Susan Jaffe offers poignant words and sound advice to young girls with the dream to dance. In the tradition of the bestselling "A Very Young Dancer," the book will be treasured by every little girl taking ballet class. Moreover, "Becoming a Ballerina" is a gorgeous, charming package, a book that will remain on girls' bookshelves long after they put away their ballet slippers. With a human interest element as well as an instructional component, the book will teach and inspire young dancers. Readers will learn the combination of talent, hard work, and determination required, even at a young age, to become a professional dancer.