Firebird
Misty Copeland, illustrated by Christopher Myers
ISBN: 9780399166150
Chunky, vivid, textural collage highlights an aspirational story of dance and dreams.
Misty Copeland is a ballerina, an African-American ballerina, a GREAT ballerina. She came late to dance, and had many moments of doubt and hardship along the way (A Life in Motion). In this picture book, she contrasts the vulnerability and fear of a young dancer with the pride and accomplishment of a career ballerina. Misty dances through the pages as a professional, most notably in her role as the Firebird, but the focus is on a younger dancer, who is discouraged by the lack of role-models who look like her, who know her background, who feel her isolation. By focusing on the student, Misty can offer herself as an example, a role-model, and a potential mentor without coming across as preachy or holier-than-thou.
Lots of celebrities and activists try to create picture books, but they often go horribly wrong. While this isn't a masterpiece, it's a solid and inspiring read, and I'm glad to add it to our collection. I look forward to using it in a storytime about mentors, dancing, or inspiration.
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