Published: 2020
Series: Bunheads
Author: Misty Copeland
Illustrator: Setor Fiadzigbey
Genres: Biography, Nonfiction, Memoir, Sports, African American, Friendship, Art, Realistic Fiction
Audience (Grade Levels): Elementary; K-4
Number of Stars: 5-Stars
Goodreads Link: Bunheads
Triggers: None
Review By: Mary Beth Cavalieri
Publisher’s Summary:
From prima ballerina and New York Times bestselling author Misty Copeland comes the story of a young Misty, who discovers her love of dance through the ballet Coppélia–a story about a toymaker who devises a villainous plan to bring a doll to life. Misty is so captivated by the tale and its heroine, Swanilda, she decides to audition for the role. But she’s never danced ballet before; in fact, this is the very first day of her very first dance class!
Though Misty is excited, she’s also nervous. But as she learns from her fellow bunheads, she makes wonderful friends who encourage her to do her very best. Misty’s nerves quickly fall away, and with a little teamwork, the bunheads put on a show to remember. Featuring the stunning artwork of newcomer Setor Fiadzigbey, Bunheads is an inspiring tale for anyone looking for the courage to try something new.
Review
This book is based on the true story of Misty Copeland’s young life. Her story is an amazing one, based on courage and following your dreams. I have a limited familiarity with ballet and its terminology, and while there were unknown terms in the book, it is easy to follow along. The book does a wonderful job of telling the story from a young beginner ballerina’s perspective. I would have loved a kid-friendly timeline of Misty’s life in the back of the book, or even a picture glossary to tell more about the ballet terms, but overall the book and the illustrations are certainly kid-friendly and engaging. There are many books written about Misty, and this book could provide that first stepping stone into learning more about a famous athlete.
Classroom & Curricular Connections:
- English Language Arts / Biography Study (Famous Athletes & Beginnings): This picture book serves as an excellent introduction to biographical research for young learners. Teachers can use Misty’s story to show how historical figures or modern heroes start out as regular children with big dreams and zero experience.
- Physical Education & Fine Arts (Dance and Ballet Terminology): Despite introducing specialized ballet jargon, the narrative keeps the concepts easy to follow. Educators can pair this text with dance units to introduce basic physical movement, performance art, and French-origin dance terminology.
- Social-Emotional Learning (Courage & Teamwork): The story centers on young Misty’s determination, courage to follow her dreams, and her ability to overcome first-day nerves through a strong support system. It serves as a wonderful springboard for classroom discussions about trying new things, teamwork, and supporting peers through collaborative challenges.
Diversity & Representation:
Bunheads is an exceptional vehicle for Black representation and centering diverse voices in children’s literature, showing a young Black girl entering the historically exclusive and non-diverse world of classical ballet. By depicting a welcoming, supportive, and multicultural community of dancers working together, the book breaks down barriers and serves as a vital mirror for young children of color pursuing classical athletic fields.
Readalikes:
- Firebird by Misty Copeland
- Dancing in the Wings by Debbie Allen
- Tallulah’s Tutu by Tori Rosen
