This is a perfect book for young readers who want to learn more about different countries and cultures. I learned several new things about the country of Austria while I was reading. This is the first in a series that follows Brooke and her new friend Eva. The mystery in this story is perfect for beginning readers . . . the illustrations are well drawn and bring the details of the story to life. At the end of the book there is a section of facts about the country of Austria. I loved the recipe and the German words that readers could learn. Overall, I will be highly recommending this book to readers.

PictureBooks4Learning

Teachers interested in using this series in their classroom will want to sign up for free teaching resources. These books are ideal for students reading at an end-of-year second grade/early third grade level. In the back of the books there is extra nonfiction information that could be utilized in the classroom. 

Great Minds Don't Think Alike

The book is set in the wonderful setting of Schloss Mueller (Castle Mueller) and Malika loved imagining what it would be like to live in the Castle with Brooke and Eva and of course the mysterious Ballerina Ghost. We loved the effortless way the book compared the differences between buildings in Colorado and Austria, the amazing Austrian foods and cafe life in Austria.

Family in Finland

“The Mystery of the Ballerina Ghost” offers an appealing invitation to celebrate and explore diverse cultures and countries with just a tantalizing touch of mysterious spice, the unknown horizon to entice further exploration and growth.

Midwest Book Review