To Be a Dancer: #1

Despite some standard soap-opera treachery, the first book in the Satin Slippers series is an appealing drama about the ballet world. Leah has the chance to join the San Francisco Ballet Academy, but first come nerve-wracking auditions. In the company are Alexandra, the daughter of Russian dancers who have defected; bubbly Kay; deceitful, beautiful Pamela; limber Linda; and Madame Preston. Leah is the most gifted dancer of the group, but she has trouble believing it and almost lets petty jealousies thwart her. Some of the relationships are a bit unmotivatedfor example, Leah's dislike for Alex is not believable. And some characters get so little mention that it's clear they won't be series ""regulars.'' But the dance steps, emotions and setting will satisfy balletomanesdancers and spectators alike. Ages 11-up. (October)