Hello! I'm Afoma.
  • Book Reviews
    • Picture book
    • Chapter Books
    • Middle-Grade
    • Graphic Novels
    • Young Adult
    • Adult Fiction
    • Adult Non-Fiction
  • Book Lists
    • Picture Book Lists
    • Middle Grade Book Lists
    • Book Lists by Theme
    • Book Lists by Grade
    • Audiobook Recommendations
  • Join My Newsletter!
  • Go to the Blog
  • Summer Reading

Reading Middle Grade

Books for Kids and Grown Ups

  • Book Reviews
    • Picture book
    • Chapter Books
    • Middle-Grade
    • Graphic Novels
    • Young Adult
    • Adult Fiction
    • Adult Non-Fiction
  • Book Lists
    • Picture Book Lists
    • Middle Grade Book Lists
    • Book Lists by Theme
    • Book Lists by Grade
    • Audiobook Recommendations
  • Join My Newsletter!
  • Go to the Blog
  • Summer Reading

Picture book · September 25, 2020

Picture Book Love: Bunheads by Misty Copeland

bunheads - picture book review

Summary: Bunheads by Misty Copeland

Bunheads was my first experience with a Misty Copeland picture book. I love watching her dance, so I was happy to get a digital copy of this ARC. This story is based on Misty’s first-time experience with ballet class. The teacher tells them the story of Coppelia (which they will be performing), and then they learn the steps and eventually perform by the end of the book.

The Good

Books about dance — and ballet, especially — are always welcome. It’s also even better when Black kids can see themselves in such stories, since ballet hasn’t traditionally being the most welcoming towards Black bodies. I like to learn new things when I read stories, so I was captivated by the Coppelia and I liked that addition in the story. Misty’s bright-eyed anticipation, her eagerness to do well, and her determination to put in the work were heartwarming to read and see.

One other high point was the warmth in the ballet studio. The teacher was sweet and gracious, and refreshingly, there was no bad blood between the dancers, even when choosing coveted roles for the performance. It was a relief to see it depicted that way. I think such depictions, do good for children, even though reality may be a bit harsher. Finally, it was fun learning about a few ballet moves in a couple of scenes.

sample page

Overall: Bunheads by Misty Copeland

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.

Buy This Book

bunheads - misty copeland picture book
Buy on amazon

I received an eARC from the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review.

More Picture Book Reviews

  • Catch That Chicken by Atinuke
  • Sunday Funday in Koreatown by Aram Kim
  • Lola Goes to School by Anna McQuinn

Have you read this book or any other picture books by Misty Copeland? What did you think? What are your favorite ballet picture books?

Don't Forget to Share!

  • Twitter
  • Facebook
  • Pocket
  • Email
  • WhatsApp
  • LinkedIn

Related

Posted In: Picture book · Tagged: dance books

Join My Newsletter

Like what you just read? Sign up for my Friday kidlit newsletter!

Privacy Policy

You’ll Also Love

Review | Radha and Jai’s Recipe for Romance
Picture Book Friday: Bindu’s Bindis
Picture Book Friday: The Electric Slide and Kai

What do you think? Leave a comment Cancel reply

Next Post >

6 Books Like… Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi

About Me
Hi, I'm Afoma! Thank you for stopping by. Learn more about me here.

Get 2 Months Free on Scribd


Follow on Bloglovin’

Follow

We’re Social Too!

  • Instagram
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest

Stock photos courtesy of our partners at DepositPhotos 📸
Books mentioned: I LOVE pairing middle grade fiction with non-fiction recommendations. It’s a brilliant way to get kids more interested in non-fiction and find similar threads between fiction and real life. 🏀 girls can play ball too 🏀 Previously, currently, and next in line: adult fiction edition. This doesn’t even include my audiobook lineup and my middle grade + YA stuff! 😥 living a lie is hard work 😬 🥠 Meet Maya 🥠
  • Blog
  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact

Copyright © 2023 Reading Middle Grade · Theme by 17th Avenue

 

Loading Comments...