My First Nutcracker — Stephanie True Peters

E.T.A. HoffmannÃ,'s classic tale The Nutcracker has charmed generations of balletgoers, but in book form its plot can seem complicated. This picture book was created specifically for parents who want to introduce their youngest children to the basics of the story. The text is as engaging as it is accessible, and Linda BronsonÃ,'s lush, candy-colored illustrations capture each magical scene, from the NutcrackerÃ,'s triumphant battle with the Mouse King to ClaraÃ,'s transformation into a princess. Also included is an authorÃ,'s note about the history of the Nutcracker ballet. This holiday treat is the perfect way to set the stage for the enjoyment of a performance.