Perfection. Beauty. Pain. For Indigo Stevens there’s no such thing as weakness or privacy at the famed New York School of Ballet where every movement is scrutinized and judged. Indigo hopes she’ll be chosen for the company, but her ballet teachers aren’t talking and their silence is confusing.
When Indigo is singled out for a coveted solo she feels her dreams are finally within reach, until she discovers she’s dancing with Felipe Gonzalez, the school’s smolderingly hot rising star. In the days that follow, Indigo questions everything she thought was true and finds herself making surprising choices, including the decision to take control of her own future. Will she create the life she wants or lose everything?
Grier began ballet lessons at age five and left home at fourteen to study at the School of American Ballet in New York. She has performed on three out of seven continents with companies such as San Francisco Ballet, Miami City Ballet, and Pacific Northwest Ballet, totaling more than thirty years of experience as a dancer, teacher and performer.
Her work has been praised as “poignant and honest” with “emotional hooks that penetrate deeply.” She writes and blogs about dance in the San Francisco Bay Area and has interviewed and photographed a diverse collection dancers and performers including Clive Owen, Nicole Kidman, Glen Allen Sims and Jessica Sutta. She is the author of Build a Ballerina Body and The Daily Book of Photography. Grier’s work has also appeared in Conscious Dancer, Discovery Girls, Skipping Stones, and Dance Advantage, among others.
Ha sido interesante leer la historia de Indigo. Siempre me ha intrigado la vida de los bailarines profesionales (o gimnastas profesionales también), en especial cómo llegan a serlo, ya que en general significa que han pasado desde la temprana infancia practicando la disciplina.
Siendo estos libros tan cortitos, asumo que son una pequeña ventana a lo que es dicha experiencia, lo difícil que es compatibilizar la vida normal y su vida profesional y la alta competitividad que existe. En especial porque la autora fue bailarina profesional tmbién.
Indigo es un personaje con fallas, discrimina a sus compañeras de ballet, así como también se siente discriminada por ellas. Siempre se están juzgando. La presión la afecta y tiene casi nula confianza en sí misma y en sus capacidades. En esta parte de la historia vemos cómo va encontrando herramientas para superar esto último.
Siento que el romance o estuvo de sobra o le faltó desarrollo, desde el principio no veía justificación para que . Así que eso es algo que me hizo disminuir la puntuación del libro.
Lo otro, es que me hizo falta un epílogo, entiendo porqué no siempre hay uno, pero a mí me gusta saber! y yo quería saber más jajaja.
Dudes! Two romantic books back-to-back! What even is my life right now?
Okay, it’s not really a romance like Hate to Want You, but the main character’s feelings do get put through the wringer when a fellow dancer seems to be interested in her. She starts to like him back, and it seems like they may be starting a relationship, but then…maybe not? And this does-he or doesn’t-he nonsense is really the last thing she needs.
Hope is about the lives of teenage dancers, ballet (obvs), and pushing yourself to be your best you, while still being a decent human being to those around you.
*Many thanks to Goddess Fish Promotions for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
This series ended up to be so much more than what I was expecting. I didn't have very high hopes in the first place, but they were definitely surpassed. Hope was such a light, enjoyable read. I'm always trying to find good books in which the MC is in the dance profession, but for some reason these books tend to be sparse and hard to find. I'm so glad I stumbled upon this book!
The characters were the main thing that I enjoyed about this book. Their interactions with each other took center stage (see what I did there) and it was very interesting to read about all the drama, friendship, and animosity between them. I felt more frustrated with Indigo in this book than in Wish, mostly due to the fact that she was so naive. I hated Felipe from the get-go; it was so easy to spot what kind of guy he was. She made tons of mistakes in this book and was kind of irritating, but I think it was all worth it in the end. I feel like this book was more about the friendships and bonds Indigo formed at her new school, unlike the first book, which was more family-oriented.
I also loved how the author eased the reader into the world of ballet. This book was easy to read, even for a reader who knows absolutely nothing about ballet (like me). The terms and practicalities actually helped the reader effortlessly read along. That's excellent setting! There's also a glossary at the back of the book if you ever find yourself struggling, which was extremely helpful.
The plot of the first book, Wish, had more complex problems than this book - dealing with alcoholism and such - so I was afraid this book wouldn't live up to the first in terms of plot compelling-ness and complexity. However, I needn't have worried. This was book was as much a page turner as the first. The writing was conversational and made me want to keep turning pages 'till the very end!
In short, Hope features an interesting dynamic between characters and a plot that'll captivate you until the very end. The writing definitely contributed to all this, along with the fun ballet atmosphere. I really wish I'd read this book earlier!
Indigo got her wish and now attends the New York School of Ballet. But she's finding that "It isn't enough to work hard and sweat; there has to be something more." Indigo is struggling: surrounded by great dancers, she no longer feels special; she has no family support; her instructors are harsh or - worse - uncaring; her feet are in constant pain; she doesn't get on with her roommate; her best friend turns on her; her crush ignores her; she's struggling to find time for homework, practice, Pilates, and work - not to mention, fun. She started the year so full of hope, but now she just feels sorry for herself. Her mother says she can come home if things don't work out, but that's the last thing Indigo wants. Then she finds a forgotten keepsake that reminds her to have courage. And Linda, her Pilates instructor, reminds her that, "If you want to be a dancer then be a dancer. You have to decide. It's that simple." Will Indigo's hope of dancing with the Manhattan Ballet Theater ever be realized?
This is a solid, enjoyable story, but without the emotional impact I was expecting after reading the first book. There is too much ballet detail for my liking, but it does lend authenticity to the story. There is a Glossary of dance terms at the end of the book, which I didn't discover until I finished; a hyperlink to each definition would be helpful the first time each term appears in the text. I struggled to believe the depth of Indigo's feelings for Felipe, however, I enjoyed witnessing her growth throughout the course of the story, and I'd like to see where she goes from here. The author manages to weave some pretty important life lessons and advice into the narrative, without being too obvious.
An uplifting tale for those who may be struggling in their own lives.
Warnings: underage drinking, sexual references.
I received this book in return for an honest review.
High-school student Indigo has landed her dream of studying at the New York School of Ballet, but she's homesick and feeling defeated. She's starting to realize that the dream may not be exactly as she pictured it in her head.
Having a background in ballet myself, I was excited when I was asked to review Hope. Grier Cooper, who studied at the School of American Ballet and performed all over the globe, writes in an easygoing and conversational way that brings the reader into Indigo's unique world.
This book is heavy with ballet terms which may be hard for non-dancers to follow at times. However, there is a glossary in the back to help anyone along. The story isn't really dependent on the ballet action, so I wouldn't discourage a reader who isn't familiar with the craft. Indigo's experiences go beyond just dancing. There's a colorful cast of side characters who are well-developed and easily distinguished from one another. They're typical teenagers who hang out together in coffee shops and have typical teenager angst, but who just happen to be preparing for careers in performing arts. For me it was a nostalgic journey back to the days of grueling rehearsals, stern teachers, and jealous (or just misunderstood) classmates. Cooper's picture of the ballet life is spot on.
Hope is a sequel, but I had no problem picking up the story. It's really a stand-alone novel with a little background peppered in when needed. I really enjoyed Hope and I highly recommend it.
In the second book of Indigo Dreams, we are with Indigo as she goes to school in New York. Not only does she have to contend with a roommate that she has nothing in common with, but also strict teachers, self-doubt and an inner core that needs strengthening.
Indigo's character changes throughout this book, as she learns more about herself and sees what she has allowed herself to become. Be warned, there are parts when I didn't like Indigo at all, and I was glad that she and Jesse weren't together as I didn't want him to see her like that! However, through a series of life lessons and help/advice given, Indigo is able to turn that around and become the person she wants to be, rather than one driven by her own fears. And yes, Jesse has a helping hand in this way too.
Grier Cooper in no way glamorises the hard work that goes into being a dancer. The descriptions are raw and real, managing to show the hard work and dedication that is needed. Exceedingly well-written, with no editing or grammatical errors that I found, this was a thoroughly enjoyable second book. I am hoping for more from Indigo, as I really don't want her dreams to end. And, of course, if Jesse could feature some more, I would be very happy. 😉
For anyone with an interest in Young Adult Contemporary Dance stories, then I can highly recommend this book and this series, although I would recommend you read Wish first to get Indigo's full story.
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book, and the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books! Apr 26, 2016
This is the second book in this series and they must be read in order. Indigo has made it into the New York School of Ballet and is finding it more difficult than she imagined it would be. She can't get a read on what the teacher are thinking. She isn't sure if they are being hard on her because they think that she has potential or if it is because she is that bad. She lives in constant doubt of herself. They she meets a new boy in class from Brazil his name is Felipe. Indigo has so much going on between regular classes and ballet classes yet so doesn't seem to be happy with any of it. Ballet is what she wants for her future but how long will she be able to continue on this way. She has made some new friends one of them is an unexpected friend. Indigo is in for a tough year. She will learn a lot about herself and what is truly important. She will learn what she can handle and who her true friends are. I enjoyed reading this book. It has some good lessons in it. Indigo is a great girl and she is going through what almost all girls her age go through. I did feel bad for some of things she went through. Plus she wants to be so perfect but she learns to be happy with her best. I wonder if there will be another book in this series and where it will take Indigo next. The end is great and wraps everything up nice and neat. Grier is a great author. She creates a world with her words. Great job Grier Cooper.
I was given this book in return for an honest review.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review Hope features Indigo, who has finally realized her dream of studying at the New York School of Ballet. At first, Indigo finds it hard to settle and sometimes finds herself questioning her decision to go to ballet school. She feels out of place amongst the other dancers, and wonders if she will ever realize the rest of her dream. Hope is the second book in the Indigo Ballet series, but it can be read as a standalone. As far as young adult books go, this one is a pretty cool read. I like the fact that most of the events that happen are likely to happen in real life. There is no shortage of ballet terms, which would have been annoying if not for the glossary at the back. The author’s way of writing is straightforward and easygoing, which makes it easy for any reader to feel like a part of Indigo’s world. I like the fact that there is diversity when it comes to secondary characters, and it’s easy to distinguish one from the other. The fact that the story isn’t necessarily dependent on either the ballet or Indigo’s crush is another plus. I have to warn you, though, there are times when Indigo acts rather pathetic; and even though it adds to the sort of “perfect imperfection” of the characters, it can be rather irritating. Over all, Hope is a nice, enjoyable read that I will recommend to any keen YA reader.
I feel as if I have walked in on something. Something that I have blossoming for Indigo young life. Away from home and feeling a little out of place. Her dreams are beginning to unfold. Or could it just be a just the opposite. Things are not all the seem to be when you are standing on the other side.
This was the second installment on the life of Indigo. She has dreams and hopes for her life and here was where some of them began to unfold. With life the way it is high school, no matter where it is or the kinds, is still high school. Teenage life falls down around our little Indigo. We get to journey with her as she experience it up close and personal.
I found the dept of technical ballet terms to be a bit off putting but they made the read real and believable. I learned new things and visually conceptualized a new world of the arts.
I found the storybeautiful to read. There was no real need to be overly familiar with the first book in the series but it would not hurt in any way. There were quick summaries to the information being glazed over from that book. Grier Cooper did a good job bringing the teen high school ballet world to color.
**This ARC was provided via Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.**
This book was amazing. You get pulled into Indigo's world and are routing for her to reach her dream. Indigo's journey is one so many young girls can relate to (though with the added pressure of ballet). Even though she is at an elite school it's like any other high school with its cliques and pressures. I love how the book is truly about her growth during the year and friendships. The discovery that Eliza is a true friend and so many other girls (like Vivianna and Kimmy). Even if you don't know much about ballet (like me)- it's approached in an accessible way with a glossary at the end if you are curious. I love the positive message from so many that you need to be the best you you can be. You can't be anyone else. I feel like there is so much more to tell and I hope there is another book.
Ballet is a far more viscous world than most of us realize and that just happens to be Indigo's world. A young dancer with dreams of international stages dancing the ballets she loved, she fights for her spot in the land of barrees and pliés. But what do you do when you dream seems so far from your reality? Indigo takes us on the roller-coaster ride of ballet classes and school in one of the most prestigious ballet schools as she fights to become her best and the best all at the same time. When love and self doubt come into play, you'll be cheering for her every move to be perfect and take her to the top spot. A story of hope above all, this story of perseverance and confidence even when you doubt yourself is bound to play your heart strings and may even teach you something you didn't know about yourself.
This story continued on with Indigo and had her attending ballet school. Indigo is kind of a superstar and the only person who is getting in her way of being the best in her class is her self doubt. This book I think she had a breakthrough when it came to that and I really hope it sticks with her. I want to see her do well. I was a little surprised that there was basically no mention of any of her friends or family from the first book. I thought for sure she would talk to Jesse at least once and maybe check in on her family back home with her mom's recovery. I think that this book really improved from the first one and I loved seeing that growth between the two novels. I'm ready for the next one! Reviewed for HeadTripping Books by Alisha
Unfortunately, Hope has turned out to be the epitome of the difficult second book.
One of the things that I enjoyed about the first book in this series, (Wish) was the character development. It would appear, however, that Indigo has become a selfish, whiny complainer. It seemed as though she was a completely different character to that in book 1.
Additionally, it didn't seem to me that the story went anywhere. The narrative felt narrow and somewhat repetitive - more of a snapshot than a real progression of Indigo's tale. Overall, this was a disappointing read.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book in the Indigo Ballet Series that continues as Hope vies for a coveted solo in the famous New York School of Ballet. The story is not only about the dance and the grind the the dancers go through to succeed, but also their lives outside the art. There is a very colorful cast of characters involved in the overall story, but when it comes right down to it, this is about Indigo and her dreams of ballet.
Since the story is mainly about dance, some readers may have a difficult time with the storyline, but if you can see past that, the underlying story makes the read worthwhile.
This book was provided by the author for my honest review.
For full review please go to: 5girlsbookreviews.blogspot.com, Twitter @camartinez and Facebook "5 Girls Book Reviews"
REVIEW BY: Michaela, age 11 years, 8 months
MAY CONTAIN SPOILER:
I loved this book! I really enjoy ballet books and this was a definite read! It also has a hint of romance in it.
Indigo is really inspirational to me and after I finished this book I wanted to dance all day long!
I would have to say that my favorite character is Indigo because she pushes herself to complete her dreams and that provides me with hope and determination!
This book was good, but not great. I guess if you are into ballet you would enjoy it. To me, it was bland. There weren't any exciting moments. Although it was very descriptive and easy to picture what was happening, I am not a fan of these kinds of books. That being said, if you like ballet and the struggles that ballerinas go through, you will probably like it.
I really enjoyed this. I had not read the first book in the series, so a bit of information was missing, but this did not distract from the story.[return]I nice read with an insight to life at a ballet school.[return]I think if you are really into ballet this would appeal to you