Charlotte the Ballerina

Ages 4 to 6, Grades P to 1

This modern take on the holiday favorite is now a Step 2 leveled reader, weaving together The Nutcracker and the true-life story of the first Black girl to play Marie in the New York City Ballet!

The only thing Charlotte Nebres loves as much as ballet is Christmas. So, when she gets the opportunity to play Marie in the New York City Ballet's The Nutcracker, she leaps at the chance.

Dancing takes practice--hours of adjusting her arms and perfecting her jumps. With the help of her Trinidadian and Filipino families, encouragement from her sister, and a view of her mom and dad in the audience, Charlotte finds the strength to never give up.

Step 2 Readers use basic vocabulary and short sentences to tell simple stories. They are perfect for children who recognize familiar words and can sound out new words with help.

About the Author

Charlotte Nebres is a fourteen-year-old pre-professional ballet dancer. Charlotte was the first Black dancer to be cast as Marie--the young heroine of "George Balanchine's The Nutcracker"--in New York City Ballet's show. Her history-making performance during the 2019 holiday season was covered by the New York Times, CBS News, Essence, GMA, and more. Charlotte is currently a student at the School of American Ballet. Charlotte lives in New Jersey with her parents, brother, and sister. Find her on Instagram at @charlottenebres.

Author Residence: Madison, New Jersey

Author Hometown: Madison, New Jersey

Alea Marley is a children's illustrator living and working in England. Her books include Everybody's Somewhere by Cornelia Spelman, Loretta's Gift by Pat Zietlow Miller, The Many Colours Of Harpreet Singh by Supriya Kelkar, and A Day So Gray by Marie Lamba. Find Alea online at aleamarley.co.uk, and on Instagram at @aleamarley.com.

Illustrator Residence:U.K.

Illustrator Hometown:U.K.