Theater Shoes

Theater Shoes by Noel Streatfeild
Youth Cd Books - Lower Level - STREATFEILD
Theater Shoes tells the story of Sorrel, Mark, and Holly Forbes. They are growing up in World War II England without their mother and father. Their mother is deceased, and their father is missing in the war. Thus, when their grandfather Forbes passes away, they are sent to live with their mother's mother—their grandmother.


Grandmother is unlike anyone else they have ever met. She is a very eccentric actress and tells the children that they will soon be attending the Children’s Academy of Dancing and Stage Training. The children have never danced, sung, or acted in their lives, and such a prospect is quite overwhelming. Before long, the children meet their cousins Miranda and Miriam, both of whom are enrolled in the Academy and part of their mother’s side of the family, the Warrens. The Warrens are known as a family of famous actors and actresses, and their lifestyle is very different from what the children always knew. Will the children grow to enjoy dancing, singing, and acting? Can they bond with their aloof grandmother? How will Sorrel cope with Miranda, a bratty girl who seems to be in competition with her? More importantly, will their father ever return?

Set in the 1940s, Theater Shoes touches upon war time issues such as rationing, bomb raids, and poor economic conditions. However, in spite of these heavy issues, the novel is never depressing. In fact, it is a feel good book. It is also quite educational because it discusses theater life in great detail. On a sidenote, Elizabeth Sastre, the narrator of the audio book version, is an absolute delight and truly brings every character to life. Thus, if you are looking for an old-fashioned and sweet read, try Theater Shoes which is just one of the “Shoes” books written by Noel Streatfeild. Others include Ballet Shoes and Dancing Shoes.