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bookish_smorgasbord's review against another edition
5.0
Author and ballet star Misty Copeland narrates this wonderful story of a young girl finding her footing and discovering her passion for ballet as she participates in a production of Coppélia. Setor Fiadzigbey matches the story's joy with delightful illustrations of the children as they learn ballet. The pirouettes, battement tendu, and other positions are skillfully rendered. Drawn from the author's own childhood experiences, this read-aloud picture book is a great one to share. #bunheads #ballet #mistycopeland #SetorFiadzigbey #picture books
mnboyer's review against another edition
4.0
Bunheads was written by famous ballerina Misty Copeland who wants children (especially young girls) to see representations of themselves in the literature they read. The book is semi-autobiographical, showing Misty’s journey as she tries to get the part of Swanilda in an upcoming dance. There is another really good dancer named Cat, but luckily the two girls (who are becoming friends) each get the main parts they want. The true moral of the story here is that if you want something and you work hard enough (lots of dance practice here!) then you can achieve that goal – and you can make friends along the way.
Young girls need to see themselves represented in literature and though we have an idea that young girls can be ballerinas, seeing the ballerinas in this book may help other young girls realize that ballerinas can come in different genders, shapes, and sizes. The main ballerina here has brown skin – which is a great representation. It is also clear that her mother is a working single mother; this is something some students/readers may pick up on and appreciate. I would pair this book with others on this list that use music/dance as part of their storyline – readers can then discuss the differences, similarities, and why dance/music is important to children.
I did not know who Misty Copeland was until after I picked up this book. I’m glad that she’s giving back to young readers by writing this book and discussing being a ballerina and its challenges (again, it is a lot of work!). It is also nice that the ballerinas in this story can be friends – no cattiness and stealing parts from one another.
Young girls need to see themselves represented in literature and though we have an idea that young girls can be ballerinas, seeing the ballerinas in this book may help other young girls realize that ballerinas can come in different genders, shapes, and sizes. The main ballerina here has brown skin – which is a great representation. It is also clear that her mother is a working single mother; this is something some students/readers may pick up on and appreciate. I would pair this book with others on this list that use music/dance as part of their storyline – readers can then discuss the differences, similarities, and why dance/music is important to children.
I did not know who Misty Copeland was until after I picked up this book. I’m glad that she’s giving back to young readers by writing this book and discussing being a ballerina and its challenges (again, it is a lot of work!). It is also nice that the ballerinas in this story can be friends – no cattiness and stealing parts from one another.
allmadhere106's review against another edition
4.0
For: readers looking for an inspiring book about dance and achieving goals.
Possible red flags: nervousness/worry.
Possible red flags: nervousness/worry.
miszjeanie's review against another edition
4.0
Bunheads is an inspiring picture book, perfect for kids who love ballet! This picture book highlights Misty’s first ballet performance, and her love for the art of dance is clear as day. I loved the depiction of supportive parents, healthy cooperation between fellow dancers, and the presence of an encouraging ballet teacher. Bonus points for the inclusion of an appealing ballet-related folk tale at the start of the story. I didn’t LOVE the illustrations, but it’s always fun to see kids of different races moving around in tutus! I would definitely recommend.
Read my full review on my blog.
Thanks to the publisher for an eARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Read my full review on my blog.
Thanks to the publisher for an eARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
msgabbythelibrarian's review against another edition
3.0
I find Misty Copeland incredibly inspiring. I loved hearing her talk....was it in a webinar? Was it an ALA video? I don't remember now. But I like what she has to share. So I did find this book fun. Now, it will not really appeal to those who don't love ballet (because that is the focus: getting ready for a ballet, ballet moves, etc.)
However, I want to mention that the illustrator, Setor Fiadzigbey, was a debut illustrator. I thought he captured the mystery of Coppelia ( the ballet being done) with browns and white and contrast. He captured the passion and the movement of the ballet =) I look forward to seeing what Fiadzigbey does in the future.
However, I want to mention that the illustrator, Setor Fiadzigbey, was a debut illustrator. I thought he captured the mystery of Coppelia ( the ballet being done) with browns and white and contrast. He captured the passion and the movement of the ballet =) I look forward to seeing what Fiadzigbey does in the future.
abigailbat's review against another edition
Young dancers will be enchanted by this book from ballet superstar Misty Copeland. It's a story from her childhood (true, I believe?) about her first dance classes and starring in her first show. From the spreads showing ballet steps to the story of Coppelia, young bunheads will eat this up. Hand it to the dancers in your life or any of Misty Copeland's many fans.
panda_incognito's review against another edition
4.0
This simple picture book, which is based on the author's childhood experiences, introduces young readers to ballet terminology and the plot of the ballet Coppélia. The book is simple and sweet, and I appreciate how it shows young Misty handling auditions and casting with a teamwork mindset, instead of feeling envious or engaging in rivalry. This book has great messages, and will be fun for children who are interested in ballet.