Marie and her parents are very poor, but Marie dreams of being the most famous ballerina in the world. When she joins the big ballet school in Paris, she notices a fierce man sitting at the side, sketching the dancers. The old man is the painter Edgar Degas, and his renowned clay model of Marie the ballet dancer does indeed make her the most famous dancer of all. Laurence Anholt's charmingly written story and lively illustrations are sensitively combined with reproductions of paintings and sketches by Degas, to create a fascinating introduction to the great painter and his love of the ballet.

About the Author

Laurence Anholt is part of a husband-and-wife team who have worked together on more than 60 picture books, published all over the world in more than 17 different languages. Their picture books -- including the Chimp and Zee series -- have won numerous awards and have been featured on television and radio. Laurence has been described by William Watt as one of the most versatile authors writing for children today. He was brought up mainly in Holland where he developed a lasting passion for art. He is a much sought after public speaker, appearing at conferences such as the European Council of International Schools Conference, the Northern Children's Book Festival and the Edinburgh Festival. To visit the Anholts' website click here

Reviews

Laurence Anholt has created a gorgeous picture story book that explores the background of Marie and how she became Degas' model Daily Express Art comes to life ... The 'real' paintings mesh cleverly with Anholt's lively illustrations Mail on Sunday