Here she writes her debut picture book and through it encourages other young dancers of color. For all budding young artists who maybe don't have role models they can relate to, this little book provides some inspiration.Wow! Misty Copeland, soloist at American Ballet Theatre, is only their second African-American soloist in their history and the first in more than 20 years. Copeland's writing and Myers' art draw you into a beautiful world, rich with color, texture and drama. Copeland's empowering words are matched by award-winning illustrator Christopher Myer's dazzling red and gold hues.'- Essence Magazine 'Misty Copeland's first children's book is destined to become a staple in classrooms and libraries. This book encourages today's aspiring dancers of all colors and backgrounds.'- The Horn Book Myers's stunning collages layer strips of thickly painted paper to echo the wings of a firebird (Copeland's signature role), whether they are illustrating the stage curtains or a cloudy sky. 'American Ballet Theatre soloist Copeland is just as graceful with words as she is with her body.

'World-renowned ballerina Copeland shows that the power and grace she displays on the stage translates to the page as well, paired with Myers' strong illustrations.'- HuffPost Books And we think that's a pretty darn awesome message.'- Dance Spirit 'Firebird celebrates optimism-the mentality that you will succeed if you set your mind to it. Myers paints portrait after portrait of Copeland dancing, placing the images against collages of colored paper whose curves, sunbursts, and radiating rays echo the rhythms of the dancers' movements. reinforce the feeling that Copeland is speaking directly to readers. 'Scenes of an older dancer guiding a young student. This is a tale that will inspire all up-and-comers.' - BookPage Myers' extraordinary artwork captures the mystique of the Firebird ballet and Copeland's indomitable spirit. ' soaring debut picture book by American Ballet Theater star Misty Copeland. A very successful collaboration.' - School Library Journal which feature full spreads bursting with color and excitement. 'A poetic dialogue between an aspiring young dancer and the American Ballet Theater's soloist comprises the text of this stunning picture book. 'An inspirational picture book for children daunted by the gap between their dream and their reality.'- Booklist '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. A starscape filled with visual drama and brilliance.'- Kirkus Reviews, starred review

'The language soars into dizzying heights of lyrical fancy. Received the 2015 Ezra Jack Keats Book Award New Writer HonorĪn Amazon Best Book of the Month, September 2014Įssence Magazine Best Children's Book of 2014

Winner of the 2015 Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award

Firebird by Misty Copeland