Degas and the Little Dancer - (Anholt's Artists Books for Children) by Laurence Anholt (Paperback)

About the Book

Marie dreams of becoming the most famous ballerina in the world, but it is hard to find enough money for lessons. At last she begins modeling for the artist Edgar Degas, well-known for his paintings of dancers and horses and for his fiery temper. When his beautiful sculpture of The Little Dancer is finished, Marie's dream comes true.

Complete with reproductions of Degas' work, this is another inspirational story from Laurence Anholt's bestselling series, celebrating some of the world's greatest artists and the real children who knew them.

Book Synopsis

A ballet dream. A timeless sculpture. A story that dances into young hearts.

When young Marie enters the Paris Opera Ballet with nothing but hope and determination, she never imagines she'll become the inspiration for one of the most iconic sculptures in history. But artist Edgar Degas sees her potential--and together, they leave a lasting mark on the world of art.

Degas and the Little Dancer is a moving picture book biography by Laurence Anholt, part of the beloved Anholt's Artists series. With expressive watercolor illustrations and real Degas artwork, this book blends history, emotion, and storytelling in a way that captivates children and adults alike.

Why Parents and Educators Love It:

• Inspires young readers to dream big and persevere
• Introduces real art history through a heartfelt narrative
• Ideal for classrooms, homeschools, or bedtime reading

Perfect for ages 6-9, this book connects readers to the world of ballet, creativity, and artistic legacy--while gently teaching empathy and resilience.

From a bestselling series that has introduced thousands of children to great artists, Degas and the Little Dancer is a timeless celebration of courage, imagination, and the magic of becoming a muse.