51 pages • 1 hour read
Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina
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Book Brief
Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina
Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | YA | Published in 2014288
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
United States • 2010s
2014
YA
12-18 years
890L
Super Short Summary
Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina by Misty Copeland chronicles her journey from a shy child in a working-class family to becoming the first African American woman to be a principal ballerina with the American Ballet Theatre. The memoir details her discovery of ballet, intense training, familial struggles, and overcoming racism and body shaming to achieve her dreams. The book contains references to racism, body shaming, eating disorders, and child abuse.
Inspirational
Challenging
Emotional
Hopeful
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
9,845 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Misty Copeland's Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina is celebrated for its inspirational narrative and candid portrayal of her journey to becoming a ballet star. While praised for its heartfelt and motivational content, some readers find the writing style lacking depth. Overall, it's a compelling read showcasing resilience against adversity.
Who Should Read Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina?
Readers passionate about overcoming adversity, personal transformation, and the arts will find Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina by Misty Copeland inspiring. It speaks to fans of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings by Maya Angelou and The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls, blending perseverance with a love for ballet.
9,845 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Sylvia DelaCerna
Sylvia DelaCerna
Misty’s mother, who faced a tumultuous personal life and moved her family frequently, ultimately playing a supportive role in Misty’s dance career.
The Copeland Tribe
The Copeland Tribe
Misty’s siblings, including Erica, Doug, Jr., Chris, Lindsey, and Cameron, who grew up together supporting one another despite challenging family dynamics.
Elizabeth Cantine
Elizabeth Cantine
Misty’s middle school drill team coach, who recognized her potential in ballet and remained a supportive and mentoring influence throughout her journey.
Cynthia “Cindy” Bradley
Cynthia “Cindy” Bradley
Misty’s ballet teacher who took Misty into her home to provide her with training, playing an integral role in her early development as a dancer.
Kevin McKenzie
Kevin McKenzie
The artistic director of the American Ballet Theatre who, despite initial intimidation, becomes a supportive figure in Misty’s rise within the company.
288
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
United States • 2010s
2014
YA
12-18 years
890L
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