Bunheads

Bunheads #1

by Misty Copeland, Setor Fiadzigbey (Illustrator)

A young Misty Copeland discovers her love for dance through the ballet of Copp�elia.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens, Biography, Nonfiction, Memoir, Sports, African American

21 pages, ebook

First published September 29, 2020

About the author

Misty Danielle Copeland (born September 10, 1982) is an American ballet dancer for American Ballet Theatre (ABT), one of the three leading classical ballet companies in the United States. On June 30, 2015, Copeland became the first African American woman to be promoted to principal dancer in ABT's 75-year history.

Reviews

[Cheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

When my daughter was very young, around 2-3 years old, she was cast as one of the dancers in the ballet Coppélia, and I still remember doing all the little girls stage makeup, and their costumes. So when I saw this book, I knew I had to read it, especially knowing that her daughter has been taking ballet now for the last year or so, and loving it.

If you don’t know the story of this ballet, it is about a toymaker who creates a beautiful, life-size doll named Coppélia. A doll so beautiful that a boy falls in love with her, although he’s sworn his love to another. A bit of jealousy, and intrigue are followed by a happy ending.

The girls in this class, in this story, are told by their teacher that they will be performing this ballet, Coppélia, they are all excited, and quickly begin to discuss which role they hope to be cast in. They practice their développées, their tendus, their pas de bourrées, soutenues, and ronds de jambe. Soon it is time for them to audition. This story takes the reader through 32 illustrated pages culminating in the actual ballet. There is a positive message of having pride of one’s accomplishments at the end of the story.

The illustrations are beautifully done, and quite charming, and perfect for young readers, or bedtime stories for little ones, especially those who love ballet, or just to dance.


Pub Date: 29 Sept 2020

Many thanks for the ARC provided by G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers Readers – Penguin Publishing Group via Edelweiss

[Lisa Nagel · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. Wonderfully illustrated, but agree with other reviewers that it doesn’t feel realistic that Misty is dancing on point her very first class..ballet is hard work and even if you are very talented, as Misty Copeland is, this made it seem too easy to become a prima ballerina. Felt a bit like it missed an opportunity to not only celebrate a talented ballerina, but inspire others in a more realistic way.

[Amy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a HUGE Misty Copeland fan but I have to admit there were elements of this story that were a little perplexing to me...especially as I read it with my 6-year old daughter who takes ballet classes. As I understand it, the story takes place at Misty's first ballet class where she is able to understand and do these complicated ballet moves, dance on pointe, and after working for a bit with another student, gets the lead in the ballet? I know she has always been very gifted and talented but what am I missing here? This doesn't seem like a realistic introduction to children about the process of working hard, persistence, learning to overcome frustration, and patience in achieving your goals. Maybe I misunderstood the timeline in the book?

[Shaye Miller · Rating 4 out of 5]

This sweet story is of a group of young dance girls who are told that they will be performing this ballet, Coppélia. This story is two-fold in that we first hear the telling of the story of Coppélia followed by witnessing the dance students prepare to audition for the parts they each want. They all work very hard (and it’s always a treat to see non-white ballerinas depicted). In the end, there’s a sense of price for the effort they each made for a successful production. Wow, this is such a lovely book — the soft sepia-looking artwork is truly stunning. The illustrations for this book were sketched and painted digitally.

For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!

[Agnė · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bunheads is a picturebook memoir of a young Misty Copeland, a future principal dancer at American Ballet Theatre, discovering her passion for dance and performing her first ballet, Coppélia.

It’s nice to see everyone - teachers, parents, and peers - so friendly and supportive.

However, the story lacks some challenge, struggle, or conflict. Everything is so easy and effortless (i.e., not particularly realistic) that instead of being inspiring, the story seems more like a humblebrag about how talented Misty was from her very first ballet class.

Also, the second half of Bunheads is rather choppy and rushed.

I really liked Setor Fiadzigbey's illustrations though, especially the movement, different and interesting perspectives, and the use of light:

[Shelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

My family picked this book to receive for the Kelloggs reading and feeding program and I loved it! The story and the pictures were amazing so thankful

[Jules · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author and ballet star Misty Copeland narrates this wonderful story of a young girl finding her footing and discovering her passion for ballet as she participates in a production of Coppélia. Setor Fiadzigbey matches the story's joy with delightful illustrations of the children as they learn ballet. The pirouettes, battement tendu, and other positions are skillfully rendered. Drawn from the author's own childhood experiences, this read-aloud picture book is a great one to share. #bunheads #ballet #mistycopeland #SetorFiadzigbey #picture books

[Jade · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such a lovely book! Written by the amazingly talented prima ballerina Misty Copeland, and beautifully illustrated by Setor Fiadzigbey, Bunheads is the fictionalized story of Misty’s start as a ballerina. The story depicts Misty’s first lessons, how she falls in love with the story of Coppélia, auditions for the part of Swanhilda, and becomes fast friends with another talented ballerina in her class. It’s a sweet story where kids learn about ballet, about the story of the ballet Coppélia, about friendship, and about believing that their dreams can become reality if they believe in them.

I read this to my 6 and 5 year olds and they loved it. There are a few ballet terms that appear in the book, which I didn’t have a problem with as I speak French and am somewhat familiar with the terms, but if you aren’t I suggest checking out the pronunciation before reading aloud. I’m looking forward to discovering more of Misty’s work with my children now!

[Alicia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I adore this for a few reasons. First, it's another Copeland story and I've enjoyed everything she's done so far (in her field and in writing about it to inspire others), the illustrations are delightfully magical and every bit as ballerina-esque as the artistic expression is. Plus, I have a soft spot. As a thirty-something, I only just went to a ballet for the first time with my ten year old sons this past summer and it was Coppelia. So I actually "knew" the story even when the new ballerina didn't and she was told the story. I was excited to have a connection.

It's a story about friendly competitiveness and wanting to be the best and the art and style of ballet. As mentioned, the illustrations only uplift the message.

[Mrs. Mazzola · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful story, perfect for anyone who loves dance. I particularly enjoyed that the interactions with the other dancers were all positive and supportive even when they were all auditioning for only a few parts. I have seen many stories where dancers are portrayed as ruthless in their quest for excellence, and this was much more about developing encouraging and positive relationships to reach your goals. And of course, it is always refreshing and amazing to see non-white ballerinas. Lovely addition to most picture book collections.

*Thank you to Edelweiss+ and the publisher for a digital copy. All opinions are my own.*

[The Library Lady · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a little too fictionalized. Misty did NOT take her very first ballet class and instantly dance en pointe and get a tryout for "Coppelia."

Yes, she started at age 13--at a Boys and Girls Club basic class. Yes, she soon ended up at a real studio and went on pointe after only a few months. But again, at her first class ever? No!

What's really aggravating about this is that she is the credited author. Either someone else wrote it and she didn't read it,or her editors really should be ashamed of themselves.

[Abby Johnson]

Young dancers will be enchanted by this book from ballet superstar Misty Copeland. It's a story from her childhood (true, I believe?) about her first dance classes and starring in her first show. From the spreads showing ballet steps to the story of Coppelia, young bunheads will eat this up. Hand it to the dancers in your life or any of Misty Copeland's many fans.

[Stephanie ((Strazzybooks)) · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely picture book about ballet. It includes illustrations and names of some ballet moves, which may intrigue readers. Also, great representation...every ballerina can see themselves in this book.

[McKinley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book made my heart so happy! I’ve loved ballet since I was a child and this gave me all the feels! ♥️ I loved how Misty incorporated the story of “Coppélia” and different moves from ballet. She also wove in a sweet story about friendship and competition.

[Alyse Liebovich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Beautiful glimpse into Misty Copeland's origins in the world of ballet. Love her, loved being transported back to the dance studio.

[Baroness · Rating 2 out of 5]

Story was ok but it lacked the ballerina magic.

[AStar Reads · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars

[Emily Garner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lovely story with beautiful illustrations. A lot of the reviews are complaining how unrealistic this story is. Misty Copeland was literally a child prodigy. She is absolutely incredible.

[Jessica Calaway · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reading age
4 - 8 years

[Avery Judd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a charming little book! I just picked it up in the store and started to read it. It captured my attention from the first page. It was absolutely stunning!! A cute little book for little girls who want to be a ballerina! :)

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Young dancers will love this one!

[Alisha · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pros: Love seeing diverse ballerinas. Enjoyed learning about ballet and the show Coppelia.

Cons: There wasn't any conflict in this story. Everything came too easy for everyone involved. If it is Misty's first class, why is everything so easy for her? I would have preferred if this book was about her hard work and determination instead of some kind of innate skill. Also conflict makes for a more compelling story. Furthermore, what are the themes? Why show off the story of Coppelia? How does it connect?

I don't mean to be harsh. I think this book is completely fine and would certainly be well liked by any child who enjoys ballet. I just think it could have been great and I'm disappointed that it wasn't.

[Afoma (Reading Middle Grade) · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

Read my full review on my blog.

Thanks to the publisher for an eARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.

[Emily Jones · Rating 2 out of 5]

I liked this book to some extent. The illustrations are unique and engaging, and the descriptions of ballet movements are nice. However, with Misty Copeland being the author and the main character’s name being Misty, it seems that this is biographical in nature. Yet it’s not. Misty Copeland’s first performance wasn’t Coppélia, and it just doesn’t seem plausible that any young child, even Copeland, could become such a perfect ballerina during her first lesson. That’s too high of a bar to set for children. Also, the brief description of the plot of Coppélia is confusing and seems copied and pasted from Wikipedia. And the title doesn’t seem to match with the story. The whole book is just not very well done, as much as I wanted to love this book.

[Pam · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an electronic ARC from Penguin Group Publishing through Edelweiss+.
Misty Copeland shares her memories from her first ballet class and leading role in Copellia. She talks about the effort required and the joy she felt when dancing. Inspiring for young ballerinas to see someone who walked this path.
The illustrations beautifully show the energy and beauty that is ballet.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5

[Michelle Boyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bunheads was written by famous ballerina Misty Copeland who wants children (especially young girls) to see representations of themselves in the literature they read. The book is semi-autobiographical, showing Misty’s journey as she tries to get the part of Swanilda in an upcoming dance. There is another really good dancer named Cat, but luckily the two girls (who are becoming friends) each get the main parts they want. The true moral of the story here is that if you want something and you work hard enough (lots of dance practice here!) then you can achieve that goal – and you can make friends along the way.

Young girls need to see themselves represented in literature and though we have an idea that young girls can be ballerinas, seeing the ballerinas in this book may help other young girls realize that ballerinas can come in different genders, shapes, and sizes. The main ballerina here has brown skin – which is a great representation. It is also clear that her mother is a working single mother; this is something some students/readers may pick up on and appreciate. I would pair this book with others on this list that use music/dance as part of their storyline – readers can then discuss the differences, similarities, and why dance/music is important to children.

I did not know who Misty Copeland was until after I picked up this book. I’m glad that she’s giving back to young readers by writing this book and discussing being a ballerina and its challenges (again, it is a lot of work!). It is also nice that the ballerinas in this story can be friends – no cattiness and stealing parts from one another.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Young Misty is attending her first ballet lesson and as the teacher explains their upcoming recital, Misty knows this is where she wants to be. Coppelia! This recital sounds like an exciting one.

As the girls’ practice and go through their positions, Misty follows along, unaware that her teacher is watching her. When Misty is paired with Cat, another girl in the class, the two girls form an instant friendship. It was as if, Misty had found her place in the world. As the girls danced together, there was harmony and balance. There were no contests for greatness, no disputes among the dancers, they were working for excellence. It was so nice to see and read about. To witness this harmony and to feel its greatness, it just made me smile.

This was a great read. The energy in the illustrations and the story was definitely felt. I think many children will enjoy this story as it moves quickly and there are some good points to be made in the story. There are some difficult words and some ballet terms in the story, so be aware of that otherwise, it’s a fantastic, entertaining story.

[Jackie (readingwordsmith) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Before diving into my review, please note that it is based on my opinion of the book. As you consider my thoughts, remember that you are allowed to have different feelings about this book. If you haven't read it yet, feel free to pick up a copy and form your own opinion on it. This book was provided to me as a review copy on Edelweiss, however, my opinions are honest and entirely my own.

Bunheads was an adorable picture book that featured a young girl named Misty who has just started dancing ballet. This picture book had beautiful illustrations showing all of the girls dancing that were eye-catching and captivating. It was a very short read that I could not put down. Although I am personally not a dancer (nor do I know much about dance), it was easy to become immersed in this beautiful book. I also loved the story behind the ballet dance that the children showcased at the recital. Overall, this is a great read for young children and even older adults.

Rating: 4/5 ⭐️
Genre: Contemporary, Picture Book,
Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: September 29, 2020

[Bethany · Rating 4 out of 5]

Being new to ballet, Misty doesn't know the story of Coppélia, but finds herself enthralled as her teacher weaves the tale. After hearing the story, Misty is more than excited to perform it for her first recital. When she gets casted as a main lead, she's ready to put her heart into it and make her mama proud. She looks to her friends for help and follows their lead until it's time to put all she's learned to the test.

Even though this is Misty's first class, she nails every move, almost as if she has a natural talent for ballet. The illustrations are stunning with a darker toned color scheme and attention to detail. BUNHEADS is inspiring for young dancers and teaches about how hard work leads to great outcomes. It's Misty Copeland's own story from when she was younger and faced the intimidating stage of ballet for the first time. My daughter enjoyed the magical feel of this story and the tale in the beginning gives it a bit more character to stand out from other ballet books.


Final Verdict: BUNHEADS is the perfect story for young ballerinas with a love for dance. It's like having two stories in one with the tale of Coppélia and of Misty's recital.