2. To Dance: A Ballerina's Graphic Novel
Cherson Siegel, Siena. To Dance: A Ballerina’s Graphic Novel. Illustrator Mark
Siegel. Aladdin Paperbacks: New York, 2006.
Annotation: Travel with Siena, a real ballerina in the American Ballet Theatre, and experience the amazing
childhood of a young girl living out her dancing dreams.
Justification for Nomination:
Siena Cherson Siegel does an amazing job telling the story of her childhood as a ballerina in New
York. Her husband, Mark Siegel, does just as amazing of a job illustrating and elaborating on his wife’s every word. This graphic novel is sure to be a favorite among young girls, as most girls can relate to wanting to be a pretty ballerina. Even girls that have no interest in dance will be intrigued by the realistic storyline and detailed graphics which help to tell the author’s story. The author’s true passion for dance is felt throughout the story, engaging readers until the end. Siena doesn’t hold punches; she shares both the ups and downs of her life. This allows readers to connect with her on multiple levels, given young adults and children the image that life isn’t all roses, even for “pre-professional” ballerinas.
Annotation: Travel with Siena, a real ballerina in the American Ballet Theatre, and experience the amazing
childhood of a young girl living out her dancing dreams.
Justification for Nomination:
Siena Cherson Siegel does an amazing job telling the story of her childhood as a ballerina in New
York. Her husband, Mark Siegel, does just as amazing of a job illustrating and elaborating on his wife’s every word. This graphic novel is sure to be a favorite among young girls, as most girls can relate to wanting to be a pretty ballerina. Even girls that have no interest in dance will be intrigued by the realistic storyline and detailed graphics which help to tell the author’s story. The author’s true passion for dance is felt throughout the story, engaging readers until the end. Siena doesn’t hold punches; she shares both the ups and downs of her life. This allows readers to connect with her on multiple levels, given young adults and children the image that life isn’t all roses, even for “pre-professional” ballerinas.
Genre Catergory: Graphic Novel
