Misty Copeland

Misty and her friends are back in the ballet studio, and this time, they are learning the wondrous tale of Don Quixote. Her best friend, Cat, knows the story inside and out. She explains that the real hero is Kitri, a brave innkeeper's daughter who defies her father to marry for true love. The class is completely spellbound, and their teacher decides it is the perfect performance for them. Misty works hard, hoping to land the role of Cupid, while everyone knows the strong willed Kitri is meant for Cat. But when an unexpected injury sidelines Cat, the young dancers must figure out how to support their friend. With a big dose of teamwork and girl power, they find the courage to keep dancing. This inspiring story shows you how to face disappointment and cheer on the people you care about most.

A young dancer stands at the edge of the stage, doubting her own ability to ever leap as high or shine as bright as her idols. Her confidence is fragile, and the path to greatness feels impossibly steep. But she is not alone. In this lyrical story, an accomplished ballerina takes the young girl under her wing to share a powerful truth. The older dancer explains that she, too, once had to learn the basic steps and struggle to find her grace. Through practice, dedication, and unwavering belief, anyone can transform. This beautiful, poetic journey shows you that success does not happen overnight. It takes hard work and resilience to reach the sky. Paired with striking, vibrant art, this uplifting story encourages you to trust in your own potential, follow your biggest dreams, and find your unique voice on the stage.

Stepping up to the ballet barre at thirteen years old is considered incredibly late for a professional dancer. But Misty Copeland was never one to let expectations dictate her future. Growing up in a chaotic household with a single mother and several siblings, she faced financial struggles and felt deeply out of place. The ballet studio became her only sanctuary, offering a world of perfect control, grace, and comfort. As her natural talent blossomed into undeniable promise, the demanding world of classical dance clashed heavily with her complicated home life. She quickly realized that becoming a trailblazer meant fighting for her own voice both on and off the stage. In this deeply personal memoir, you will follow her challenging road to excellence as she breaks down historic barriers to become the first female African American principal dancer at the American Ballet Theatre. This powerful story explores the resilience required to navigate complex family relationships, overcome intense pressure, and stand tall in an industry that rarely looked like her. It is an honest, inspiring look at what it truly takes to pursue an impossible dream.

Growing up in a motel with her five siblings, a young Misty Copeland had very little exposure to the world of classical ballet. It was not until she was sixteen that she finally saw a Black ballerina grace the cover of a magazine. That single image changed everything, proving that she was not alone and her biggest dreams were entirely possible. In this stunning nonfiction collection, you are introduced to the trailblazing dancers of color who paved the way for future generations. These remarkable women faced heavy repression and racism, yet they pushed back with fierce talent, grace, and unmatched tenacity. You will read about their extraordinary lives, their groundbreaking performances, and the profound impact they had on the landscape of American ballet from the early twentieth century to today. By lifting up these hidden histories, this book ensures these brilliant artists finally receive the recognition they have always deserved. It is a beautiful celebration of legacy, courage, and the power of representation on the stage.

The very first day of ballet class can feel entirely overwhelming, especially when you have never danced before. Young Misty is nervous but thrilled to step into the studio and discover the magical world of Coppelia. She learns about a toymaker with a villainous plan and a brave heroine named Swanilda, a story so captivating that Misty decides she must audition for a part. Surrounded by fellow bunheads, she quickly realizes that the studio is not just about pointing your toes and remembering the steps. It is a place to build wonderful friendships and encourage each other to try new things. As her initial nerves fade away, the dancers join forces to put on a show they will never forget. This vibrant story brings the beauty of ballet to life while reminding you that with a little teamwork and courage, you can step out of your comfort zone and shine.