The Clumsy Ballerina

A beautifully illustrated picture book about finding confidence, embracing individuality, and discovering the courage to follow your dreams.

Maribelle doesn't always fit the image of what people think a ballerina should be. She trips, tumbles, and hears the word "clumsy" far too often. Yet when she dances, she feels something entirely different...strong, graceful, and truly herself.

Through Maribelle's journey, young readers will discover an encouraging message about resilience, self-confidence, and the importance of looking beyond labels. With lyrical storytelling and magical illustrations, The Clumsy Ballerina celebrates the idea that our differences can become our greatest strengths.

Ideal for ages 4-8, ballet lovers, classrooms, libraries, dance studios, and families seeking stories that inspire perseverance and self-belief.

Monica R. DeVine grew up dancing ballet and, like Maribelle, was sometimes a little clumsy offstage. She trained for a time at the National Ballet School of Canada, where her love of dance deepened and stayed with her long after she left the stage.Inspired by her own experiences, she wrote The Clumsy Ballerina, her debut picture book, to encourage children to trust their inner voice, believe in themselves, and embrace what makes them unique-stumbles and all.She lives in Hawaii with her family, where she has traded dancing on stage for dancing on waves.

Mary Illustrafavole is an Italian illustrator and children's book artist who loves creating warm, emotional worlds filled with charm, imagination, and expressive characters. She has illustrated and published several children's picture books, creating stories inspired by childhood wonder, gentle emotions, and the magic hidden in everyday moments.