Dance with Rosie

Ballet Slippers #1

by Patricia Reilly Giff, Julie Durrell (Illustrator)

Rosie tries to make up with her former best friend and get into ballet class after the sign-up deadline

Genres: Fiction, Childrens

80 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1996

About the author

Patricia Reilly Giff was an American author and educator whose warm, emotionally resonant books made her a beloved figure in children's literature. After spending roughly two decades as a teacher, she turned to writing and brought a deep understanding of young readers to stories that balanced humor, resilience, and emotional truth. Educated at Marymount Manhattan College, St. John's University, and Hofstra University, she drew on both her classroom experience and literary instincts to create memorable fiction for children and middle-grade readers. She became especially well known for the popular Polk Street School series, which captured the everyday dramas of school life with charm and empathy. Beyond those books, she wrote acclaimed novels such as Lily's Crossing, Nory Ryan's Song, Pictures of Hollis Woods, Eleven, and Genevieve's War, often exploring themes of belonging, family, hardship, and courage. Her work earned wide recognition, including Newbery Honors, an ALA Best Book for Young Adults designation, and a Christopher Award. Giff also influenced younger writers through her workshops and teaching spirit. Throughout her career, she remained a compassionate literary voice whose stories spoke directly to children's fears, hopes, and imaginations.

Reviews

[Brandi · Rating 2 out of 5]

The first book in Patricia Reilly Giff's Ballet Slippers series introduces the young girl Rosie who wants to be a ballerina just like her grandmother. However, her dream isn't easily obtained, especially after she misses the deadline for ballet class sign-ups! Her woes don't stop there. Her best friend is no longer speaking with her and she's can't figure out why. Will Rosie patch up her friendship and learn to dance as she desperately wants to? A chapter book for transitional readers.