Music Legends
Key Stage 2The history of rock is chronicled through forty world-famous artists and groups in this stylishly designed and illustrated book. It begins with Elvis Presley, whirls through the psychedelic 60s and the protest songs of the 70s, then via glam rock and reggae takes us into the punk era, new wave and hip hop, leaving us with Beyoncé and Arcade Fire. It’s clearly a personal choice (Blur but not Oasis? And where are the queens of soul and disco?) but covers a huge range of styles and movements, and gives a real sense of the evolution of popular music. Each artist has a double page and they are represented via stylish, graphic illustrations accompanied by useful captions – dotted lines lead from Bob Dylan’s head to the words ‘Politically engaged’, while Elvis’s hips are labelled ‘provocative’. Fun, stylish and informative.
National Theatre: Play in a Box
Key Stage 2Wannabe directors and thespians will love this fantastic box set filled with everything they need to put on a show. Expert tips and tricks for staging, costume, make-up and props, right the way though to sound and lighting will have them creating their own hit shows before long. Mixed together with lots of inspiration they'll have everything they need to create, direct and act in their own play. There is even a programme and tickets to colour in to advertise the big event. A brilliant gift for anyone who loves drama and storytelling. ~ Shelley Fallows - You can also find Shelley here.
Ballerina Dreams
Key Stage 1In a nutshell: the inspiring true story of ballerina Michaela DePrince | This charming little book opens with a scene any young dancer dreams of: a girl peeking through the curtains before flying onto the stage, a ballerina. The journey taken by that young ballerina to make that entrance is particularly inspiring however: she is Michaela DePrince, and the book describes simply and without embellishment how she came from an orphanage in Sierra Leone to become one of the world’s best dancers. It’s a story of hope, courage, love and persistence, filled with enough dance detail to satisfy tutu-wearing youngsters while gently reminding them anyone’s dreams can come true with hard work and practice. Ella Okstad’s illustrations of Michaela and her fellow little dancers are absolutely gorgeous. ~ Andrea Reece
National Theatre: All About Theatre
Key Stage 2One of our Books of the Year 2015 - Julia Eccleshare's Pick of the Year 2015 - November 2015 Book of the Month Bravo for this brilliant and inspiring book! It takes lots of different people with lots of different skills to put on a play, and in this book the team at the National Theatre explain just how it’s done: from script to opening night, taking in rehearsals, set making, make-up, lighting, sound and music, and more, they explain how their different roles and the work they do combine to create a magical theatrical experience. There’s a huge amount of information packed in, with quotes and comments from the professionals involved, technical information, stats and facts, and tips for you to try at home. By the end readers will have a really good understanding of theatre and no doubt a burning desire to see more shows and to put on plays themselves. ~ Andrea Reece Also chosen by Andrea Reece as one of her Top Picks of 2015.
Hope in a Ballet Shoe Orphaned by War, Saved by Ballet: An Extraordinary True Story
Key Stage 3The amazing true story of how an orphan from Sierra Leone has become a major US ballet star. Michaela DePrince’s life began in a country wracked by conflict. Her parents died when she was a baby. Placed in an orphanage by her cruel uncle she saw acts of unspeakable violence all around her but was saved herself by the care and wisdom of the owner of the orphanage who found adoptive US parents for the children in his charge. Together with her friend from Sierra Leone, Michaela was adopted by a remarkable family who not only gave them a home but also enabled Michaela to fulfil her dream of becoming a ballet dancer. Michaela and her adoptive mother tell their story with energy and good humour.
Play Time Plays for All Ages by the Bestselling Author of The Gruffalo
Key Stage 1Rarely do mainstream publishers feel they can justify the publication of plays so we’re particularly delighted with this new edition of Play Time, a lovely collection, from the queen of song and verse, perfect for the family to act out or for teachers to enjoy with their pupils in class. Most children love acting and it’s a tremendous way to improve their reading within a familiar environment and for that budding actor to show off their talent to family and friends.
Ballet Academy: The World of Ballet
Key Stage 2This is the perfect gift for ballerinas and ballet enthusiasts. Linked to the Ballet Academy series of novels set in a ballet school, this is a wonderful and essential companion volume that provides a real insight into the world of ballet. You’ll join Zoe, star of the Ballet Academy books, as she takes you on a tour of the world of ballet. Learn all about the clothes, the shoes, preparing for lessons, basic steps, jumps, dances, famous ballets, dancers and directors, tutus and tests. To view all the titles to date in Ballet Academy click here.
Playtime!
Key Stage 1Rarely do mainstream publishers feel they can justify the publication of plays so we’re particularly delighted to be able to introduce to you this lovely collection, from the queen of song and verse, perfect for the family to act out during the forthcoming cold, dark evenings of the autumn and the winter or for teachers to enjoy with their pupils in class. Most children love acting and it’s a tremendous way to improve their reading within a familiar environment and for that budding actor to show off their talent to family and friends.
