My First Nutcracker - Tapa dura

E.T.A. HoffmannÂ'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 BronsonÂ's lush, candy-colored illustrations capture each magical scene, from the NutcrackerÂ's triumphant battle with the Mouse King to ClaraÂ's transformation into a princess. Also included is an authorÂ'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.

Stephanie True Peters is the author of the bestselling A Princess Primer. She lives with her family in Mansfield, Massachusetts.

Linda Bronson lives with her family in Hadlyme, Connecticut.