Chapter Book · Ages 7–11

Star of the Show

By Jacqueline Wilson

Orphaned Tess dreams of dancing despite poverty and family struggles.

4.1/5 Goodreads · 126 ratings

352 pages

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In Victorian times, young Tess faces a harsh reality after losing her parents. With her siblings seeking work, Tess juggles school and caring for baby Ada. Yet, her heart yearns for the stage. Can she overcome poverty to dance in the Cinderella pantomime at the Grand Theatre? Tess's journey is one of resilience and hope, where dreams clash with survival. Will she find her way to the spotlight, or will life's challenges dim her aspirations? Discover a tale of determination and family bonds in this captivating adventure.

From the publisher

A captivating Victorian adventure about family troubles and big dreams from the bestselling Jacqueline Wilson. ‘I’m going to a place called Grand Theatre and I’m going to be a dancer in a pantomime!’ Tess loves to dance, even when everything seems grim. After mum dies and pa leaves, she and her brothers and sisters are all alone, with hardly any food or money. With empty stomachs and scrambling for pennies, they’ve got to fend for themselves.When Tess’s big brother and sister go out to look for work, she has to stay in class at The Ragged School and take care of their baby sister Ada. But Tess is determined that even though she is poor, she will still get to go to the ball…or at least to dance in the Cinderella pantomime at the Grand Theatre…

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