This book was spread over 2 nights as I think it's a bit 'wordy' for my 20-month old DD.

I liked the tomboy Katie Morag character, who gets backies on her mother's bicycle and enjoys shouting. In fact I was surprised by how polite she also is - when Granma Mainland (the glamourous one) appears bearing a frilly ballet tutu Katie Morag is very well-mannered and says "thank you" -! There was also a nice illustration of mother breastfeeding. ( )

Katie Morag & the Dancing Class is a new and delightful picture book from Mairi Hedderwick. Set in Scotland, it has been decided that the Isle of Struay children will benefit from dancing classes. Despite the efforts of her two grandmas, Katie Morag has more interesting things to do than learn ballet. Much to Granma Mainland’s dismay, Katie prefers wellies to ballet slippers and never manages to arrive at her ballet class on time.

One Saturday morning, Katie misses the entire class, arriving just as The Big Boy Cousins begin their tap dance class. As those who know Katie might suspect, she is more inclined toward tap dancing than ballet and before long Grannie Island is rummaging in her cupboards for metal tacks.

Katie Morag has long been a favourite in our household. We first me her in Katie Morag Delivers the Mail and have enjoyed many of her adventures and misadventures very much. There is a gentleness to the stories and a wonderful sense of community. In this book, the contrast between the two grandmas (Granma Mainland and Grannie Island) is highlighted. Of course, both want what is best for Katie but it is Grannie Island who understands her best.