Puffin Classics: the definitive collection of timeless stories, for every child. Now a major production at the National Theatre

"We three Fossils vow to try to put our name into history books, because it's our very own, and nobody can say it's because of our grandfathers."

Pauline, Petrova and Posy Fossil are sisters - with a difference. All three were adopted as babies by Great Uncle Matthew, an eccentric and rich explorer who then disappeared, leaving them in the care of his niece Sylvia.

When Sylvia starts to run out of money they hit on an inspired idea: Pauline, Petrova and Posy will attend Madame Fidolia's Children's Academy of Dance and Stage Training - and take to the stage.

But it's not long before the Fossils learn that being a star isn't as easy as they first thought...

Ballet Shoes is the magical, warm-hearted and much loved classic tale of three very different girls who work hard to master their talents.