Prepare for an enchanted production of a beloved ballet in The Night Before the Nutcracker, from Doubleday Books for Young Readers and on sale now. The book is geared toward children ages three to seven and is written by critically acclaimed children’s author John Robert Allman.
Created in partnership with American Ballet Theatre (ABT), with dreamy illustrations by Julianna Swaney, this joyful picture book offers readers a front-row seat to the excitement of opening night as young dancers prepare for a performance of The Nutcracker.
’Twas the night before The Nutcracker and, sleepless in their beds, these budding ballet dancers are rehearsing in their heads. Four young children experience the thrills of auditions, rehearsals, costume fittings and finally the big event — opening night! Ballet lovers and children who dream of dancing in The Nutcracker will love this magical illustrated holiday story, told in the tradition of The Night Before Christmas.
An afterword with Richard Hudson’s original costume designs for ABT’s production makes this picture book both aspirational and informative. A memorable keepsake and perfect gift, The Night Before the Nutcracker is a charming behind-the-scenes peek that will delight young readers and dance fans alike.
Author John Robert Allman lives in New York City, where he works in marketing for television and theater. He is the author of A Is for Audra: Broadway’s Leading Ladies from A to Z, B Is for Ballet: A Dance Alphabet and Boys Dance! He was born and raised in Texas, where he was often the only boy in dance class. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @Johnny_Allman.
Julianna Swaney is an illustrator, designer and fine artist whose work is inspired by the themes of imagination, whimsy and melancholy. Her books include Mermaid School and I Will Always Be Your Bunny. Swaney studied printmaking at Maine College of Art and lives in Portland, Oregon. See more of her work online at juliannaswaney.com and on Instagram at @julianna_swaney.
Share this:
