Misty Copeland, the first female African-American principal dancer in the history of the American Ballet Theater, brings her story to life in this special young readers edition of her autobiography.
Though her talent is unparalleled, Copeland’s journey to stardom in the classical ballet world was not easy. While most ballerinas begin lessons at 3 or 4 years old, Copeland came to the ballet world much later, at the age of 13. Despite this late start and the added challenge of an unstable home life, Copeland’s natural talent was apparent from her first day in a ballet class at her local Boys & Girls Club. Dubbed a prodigy by her teachers, Copeland was going en pointe, the technical term for dancing on the tips of your toes, after just three months of lessons, a technique that takes most young dancers years to master.
Young girls and boys alike will be captivated by Copeland’s story of hard work and perseverance, and encouraged to pursue their own dreams no matter what obstacles may stand in their way. Through spare yet beautiful language, Copeland shares both the hardships and triumphs of her journey in a simple yet honest way that younger readers will be able to easily comprehend. While Copeland’s illustrious career is certainly inspirational, this biography allows readers to peak behind the curtain of glamour and fame and get to know the true story of one of the world’s most famous ballerinas. Rather than skipping over the struggles along the way, Copeland relates them with grace and transparency, creating a genuine account of her impressive life that is sure to motivate young and old alike.
