Theater Shoes (The Shoe Books)

Theater Shoes by Noel Streatfeild is a charming, heartwarming classic. The story of three siblings finding their place in the world through theatre is cozy, inspiring, and full of warmth. The wartime setting adds gentle depth without feeling heavy, and fans of Ballet Shoes will enjoy the familiar atmosphere. A lovely read for young readers and adults who enjoy nostalgic children’s books.

Great traditional book series. Had to have it for my granddaughters collection. I consider it a must have in that regard.

"An excellent book for girls, it's the kind of story you'll want to read whenever possible!"

Noel Streatfeild’s “shoes” books, set in 1940’s Great Britain, were beloved by my ballet-dancing daughter for their realistic presentations of family challenges within the historic context of WW2. I made sure that my ballet-dancing granddaughter had the same opportunity as soon as she was able to sound out words at age 6. I ordered several books from the same series for her to enjoy even though the suggested age is several years older. They are classics. Streatfeild’s prose may seem formal and stilted when compared to books written today, with their slang and colloquialisms. Nevertheless, I think it is important for children to be able to make their way through literature from all historical periods in order to develop their reading abilities and intellects.

the recipient was very pleased with this gift

I loved "Ballet Shoes" and was excited to read about the continuing adventures of the Fossil Sisters, but the focus of the book is really on the unrelated but similar Forbes family. I still find it to be a very enjoyable read; the author's descriptions of the life at a children's performing arts academy during the war are vivid and interesting. I had a paperback copy when I was young but have read it to death and it is literally falling apart so I decided to order the library bound copy. As mentioned by a previous reviewer this version is definitely modernized (which I didn't mind horribly) but also abridged (which I did mind horribly). Entire sections have been eliminated and while this wouldn't be a problem for someone who hasn't read an older edition it really bothered me. I have ordered the paperbacks from Amazon.co.uk (at a considerably higher cost than the corresponding US paperbacks) in the hopes that I can have a nice copy with all the text intact. I would have given 5 stars but due to the abridgment, I am taking off one star.

OK

Purchased for my 4th granddaughter for summer reading. She loves this book. Keep on writing and we'll keep on reading! Thanks