Jocelyn and the Ballerina

Alison Mews is co-ordinator of the Centre for Instructional Services at
Memorial University of Newfoundland.

Jocelyn is stubbornly attached to an outgrown tu-tu with attached
leggings, which she refers to as the “Ballerina.” Every day her
mother’s efforts at trying to discard or even wash it are firmly
rejected. Despite its ragged appearance, Jocelyn feels magical when she
twirls in it. When she is forced to wear a scratchy new dress to a
wedding, she secretly slips the Ballerina underneath. But it begins to
migrate down her legs as she walks up the aisle, and her attempts to
conceal it cause the adults much amusement. Misunderstanding the mirth,
she

gives a fancy curtsy and is glad she had the foresight to wear her
Ballerina, as it “makes the best curtsies.”

Nancy Hartry’s hilarious story of a classic struggle between parent
and obstinate child perfectly captures the egocentric voice of the young
child. From Jocelyn’s selective hearing, to her absolute certainty
that she is more graceful in her Ballerina, through her final
categorical statement that she will wear it forever, we remain focused
on a child’s view of her world.

Linda Hendry’s cartoon faces have minimal features, but with a few
deft brushstrokes she manages to create a marvelous range of emotions.
Jocelyn’s expression is one of pure bliss as she twirls among imagined
clouds, but when she stomps down the stairs, there is no doubting her
sullen anger.

Both children and parents will identify with this story. Try reading it
to a child without laughing aloud! Highly recommended.