Firebird

In her debut picture book, Misty Copeland tells the story of a young girl–an every girl–whose confidence is fragile and who is questioning her own ability to reach the heights that Misty has reached. Misty encourages this young girl’s faith in herself and shows her exactly how, through hard work and dedication, she too can become Firebird.

Lyrical and affecting text paired with bold, striking illustrations that are some of Caldecott Honoree Christopher Myers’s best work, makes Firebird perfect for aspiring ballerinas everywhere.

Misty Copeland came to ballet late at the age of thirteen, and went on to make history by becoming a soloist at American Ballet Theater only a few short years later. She is only the second African American soloist in ABT’s history and the first in more than two decades. Performing in a variety of classical and contemporary ballets, Misty’s most important part to date is the title role in The Firebird. Misty’s passion is giving back, especially by mentoring children. She has worked with many charitable organizations and has been honored with an induction into the Boys & Girls Club National Hall of Fame. She is also the author of Life in Motion, her memoir

Winner of the 2015 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award
Received the 2015 Ezra Jack Keats Book Award New Writer Honor
An NPR Best Book of 2014
An Amazon Best Book of 2014 - Ages 6-8
An Amazon Best Book of the Month, September 2014
Essence Magazine Best Children's Book of 2014

"The language soars into dizzying heights of lyrical fancy... Myers' artwork... pulsate[s] with kinetic synergy... A starscape filled with visual drama and brilliance."-- Kirkus Reviews, starred review

"Ballet dancer Misty Copeland makes her children's book debut with this inspiring love letter to young people, containing breathtaking illustrations of airborne dancers by Caldecott Honor artist Christopher Myers... Brava!"-- Shelf Awareness, starred review

An inspirational picture book for children daunted by the gap between their dream and their reality.-- Booklist

"A poetic dialogue between an aspiring young dancer and the American Ballet Theater's soloist comprises the text of this stunning picture book... which feature[s] full spreads bursting with color and excitement... A very successful collaboration." -- School Library Journal

"[A] soaring debut picture book by American Ballet Theater star Misty Copeland... Myers' extraordinary artwork captures the mystique of the Firebird ballet and Copeland's indomitable spirit. This is a tale that will inspire all up-and-comers." -- BookPage