From the Ballet Slippers series, this beginning chapter book opens with Rosie finding the perfect birthday gift for her beloved grandpa: her ballet class will be performing Cinderella on his birthday and dedicating it to him. Soon, though, she discovers that grandpa is planning a trip back to Cornwall on his birthday. When he learns of the birthday surprise and cancels the trip rather than upset Rosie, she is initially reassured but finally puts her grandpa first, urging him to go to Cornwall. The whole dilemma unfolds in an atmosphere of understatement rare in books for this age group. Grandpa and Rosie don't need to spell out what they know about each other; Giff pays readers the compliment of not spelling it out for them, either. A solid addition to an engaging series. To be illustrated. (Reviewed October 1, 1997)

Rosie has the perfect gift for her grandfather's upcoming birthday: her dance class will perform 'Cinderella', his favorite ballet. But when she learns that Grandpa is going on vacation and will miss the performance, Rosie almost ruins his plans. In the end she learns a bit about selflessness and friendship. This simple, realistic story will be satisfying to fans of Rosie and ballet.

Gr 1-4--Another delightful addition to the series. Rosie O'Meara is planning a special birthday surprise for her grandfather: her ballet class is going to dance the story of "Cinderella." Conflicts arise when Grandpa is invited to visit England, where old family and familiar places await him, and he will miss the ballet surprise. When he decides to stay home, Rosie realizes he is only doing it for her and urges him to go. All ends happily with a family party before he leaves. Ballet terms are sprinkled throughout and are defined in a glossary. While there is enough about ballet to satisfy dance lovers, Rosie's relationships with her best friend and her brother make this a well-rounded story about family and friends. Durrell's lighthearted line illustrations highlight the text. An easy-to-read chapter book that will hold young readers' interest until the last "entrechat."--Janet M. Bair, Trumbull Library, CT