Life In Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina (2014) - Plot & Excerpts
Oh my goodness. This could've been a good book, if it weren't for the overwhelming lack of humbleness and the annoying need to point out the race/ethnicity of everyone she met. Sure, at times that's important but do I need to know the races of two potential prom dates? And I get that dancers should have a healthy amount of self-esteem but this was overkill and made me really dislike the author. Disappointing. Michaela DePrince did it so much better. I loved this memoir of the first African-American woman to rise to the level of soloist in American Ballet Theater in 20+ years. Besides offering an inspiring story of passion, courage, perseverance, and "difference," the book provides insight into the artistic and physical challenges of a life in ballet. Unfortunately, Misty has faced hostility and discrimination in pursuing a career in an art form that includes few people of color. She is articulate in expressing her feelings about painful incidents (using entries from a journal she has kept for many years)and grateful to mentors who have affirmed her. Not only is she proud of her black identity, but she is also committed to a vision of making ballet more accessible to young people of color -- including outreach through the Boys and Girls Clubs of America, where she got her start.The book makes clear how much of herself Misty puts into her preparation and performances. She consistently holds herself to a high standard. I hope this "unlikely ballerina" continues to have success in ballet and in life.
What do You think about Life In Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina (2014)?
It was VERY poorly written, and Misty's story wasn't nearly as interesting as it seemed
—keepinitreal
This was a beautiful story of Copeland's path to ballet and the ABT.
—agantuk
Listened to this audio, very engrossing and great story.
—Mike
