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Firebird
In her debut book, Misty Copeland tells the story of a young girl - an every girl - whose confidence is fragile and who is questioning her own ability to reach the heights that Misty has reached. Misty encourages this young girl's faith in herself and shows her exactly how, through hard work and dedication, she too can become Firebird.
Lyrical and affecting text makes 'FIREBIRD' perfect for aspiring ballerinas everywhere.
RUNNING TIME ➥ 15mins.
©2014 Misty Copeland (P)2020 Listening Library
Lyrical and affecting text makes 'FIREBIRD' perfect for aspiring ballerinas everywhere.
RUNNING TIME ➥ 15mins.
©2014 Misty Copeland (P)2020 Listening Library
Audible Audio
First published September 4, 2014
24 people are currently reading
1424 people want to read
About the author
Misty Copeland
11 books257 followersMisty 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.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 624 reviews
September 10, 2014
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. Here she writes her debut picture book and through it encourages other young dancers of color. Lest you think this is a book just for dancers, it is not. It is for anyone who needs to hear a voice of success speak about how important dedication and hard work is to creating that success. Copeland tells it all in poetry that soars and dances just as she does. This is a beautiful book of inspiration that reaches far beyond dance.
Copeland’s verse is exceptional. It is hard to believe that poetry with this much control and beauty comes from someone who has not written many books. It is shining verse that lifts the reader up and invites them to leap across the page along with Copeland. She weaves lovely metaphors throughout her words, “stitching worn-out slippers, swift as applause” is one of my favorites and it is just as vivid and unique as Copeland herself.
Myers art is a lush mix of media that is just as radiant as the verse. The pages are filled with Copeland and young African-American dancers who fly across the pages. Myers creates motion on the page with his strips of paper that frame as well as enliven the illustrations.
A magnificent picture book for young dancers that will inspire them to see joy in dance and also to understand the dedication it will take to be a success. Appropriate for ages 6-9.
Copeland’s verse is exceptional. It is hard to believe that poetry with this much control and beauty comes from someone who has not written many books. It is shining verse that lifts the reader up and invites them to leap across the page along with Copeland. She weaves lovely metaphors throughout her words, “stitching worn-out slippers, swift as applause” is one of my favorites and it is just as vivid and unique as Copeland herself.
Myers art is a lush mix of media that is just as radiant as the verse. The pages are filled with Copeland and young African-American dancers who fly across the pages. Myers creates motion on the page with his strips of paper that frame as well as enliven the illustrations.
A magnificent picture book for young dancers that will inspire them to see joy in dance and also to understand the dedication it will take to be a success. Appropriate for ages 6-9.
March 20, 2019
Ballerina Misty Copeland, a soloist at the American Ballet Theatre, presents this poetic picture-book to young dancers just like her, hoping to encourage them to dream big. Opening with a moment of despair, from one such hypothetical dancer, who maintains that she "could never hope to leap the space between" herself and Misty, the narrative counters this with words of fellow-feeling and encouragement, as the object of the young dancer's admiration (Misty herself) assures her that she too was once an aspiring youngster with insecurities of her own. Eventually though, through hard work and maintaining one's dreams, that space between the two - the professional ballerina and the hopeful young dancer - will close...
Firebird is a lovely book, pairing Misty Copeland's poetic and heartfelt message of encouragement for young dancers, especially young African-American ballet dancers, with gorgeous collage-style artwork from Christopher Myers. I always wonder, with authors famous in other areas of endeavor who decide to try their hand at writing children's books, whether the work they produce will be worth reading. I need not have worried here, as the narrative is just lovely: expressive, poetic, and ultimately both poignant and uplifting. The artwork was beautiful, with a sense of vibrancy and movement that complemented the narrative perfectly. Myers definitely deserved the accolades he won for this one, including the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award. Recommended to Misty Copeland fans, and to all young would-be ballerinas, especially African-American ones.
Firebird is a lovely book, pairing Misty Copeland's poetic and heartfelt message of encouragement for young dancers, especially young African-American ballet dancers, with gorgeous collage-style artwork from Christopher Myers. I always wonder, with authors famous in other areas of endeavor who decide to try their hand at writing children's books, whether the work they produce will be worth reading. I need not have worried here, as the narrative is just lovely: expressive, poetic, and ultimately both poignant and uplifting. The artwork was beautiful, with a sense of vibrancy and movement that complemented the narrative perfectly. Myers definitely deserved the accolades he won for this one, including the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award. Recommended to Misty Copeland fans, and to all young would-be ballerinas, especially African-American ones.
September 29, 2014
"Firebird" by Misty Copeland is one of the best picture books I have read this year. The story is about a young dancer who doesn't quite believe in herself enough. With a few inspirational words from Misty Copeland herself, the young dancer can see herself as a star ballerina.
The book is written as what I would I would describe as a poem. The simplicity of the text makes it appropriate for younger readers, but the complexity of the message signals a great book for older children, too.
The illustrations are by Christopher Myers, and each illustration seems to capture the grace of a ballerina's movement, even in an image of a girl walking along the street.
The book concludes with a letter from Misty to the reader.
I would highly recommend this book to any young person who is interested in dance, especially ballet. This book would make a great "calming down" story during a preschool story time about dance. I would also recommend this to parents seeking a good picture book for African American children.
The book is written as what I would I would describe as a poem. The simplicity of the text makes it appropriate for younger readers, but the complexity of the message signals a great book for older children, too.
The illustrations are by Christopher Myers, and each illustration seems to capture the grace of a ballerina's movement, even in an image of a girl walking along the street.
The book concludes with a letter from Misty to the reader.
I would highly recommend this book to any young person who is interested in dance, especially ballet. This book would make a great "calming down" story during a preschool story time about dance. I would also recommend this to parents seeking a good picture book for African American children.
October 8, 2020
Beautifully written and illustrated. The poetic text is like a pas de deux, between an aspiring young dancer and Misty, the mentor. I think this could be appreciated by those with little dance background, yet appreciated the little nuggets for those familiar with ballet. The illustrations are engaging, at once stylized yet reflective of the correct ballet positions that are being represented (I have read other picture books about dancers that become so stylized they completely lose the actual dance positions and I appreciate Myers' efforts all the more because of it). I appreciate that, at the end, the images of the future dancers are silhouettes, male and female, so that children of any gender or ethnicity can see themselves as a dancer.
February 21, 2021
“Even birds must learn to fly.”
“The space between you and me is longer than forever and I will show them that forever is not so far away.”
Firebird by @mistyonpointe is a story about perseverance and having confidence even when you doubt yourself. So beautifully told, my children loved listening and watching her read this book. Like many childrens books, important messages resonate with children, and as an adult, it’s so important to remember these very messages. Constant doubt and lack of confidence ultimately impacts our decision making abilities, our confidence to move forward in whatever we desire and our happiness. Losing sight of why we do what we do because we love it, deters us from reaching our fullest potential.
Loved this adorable book! Must read!
“The space between you and me is longer than forever and I will show them that forever is not so far away.”
Firebird by @mistyonpointe is a story about perseverance and having confidence even when you doubt yourself. So beautifully told, my children loved listening and watching her read this book. Like many childrens books, important messages resonate with children, and as an adult, it’s so important to remember these very messages. Constant doubt and lack of confidence ultimately impacts our decision making abilities, our confidence to move forward in whatever we desire and our happiness. Losing sight of why we do what we do because we love it, deters us from reaching our fullest potential.
Loved this adorable book! Must read!
August 11, 2015
This is a wonderful, inspirational, and poetic tale that shows how hard work and determination can take you far. I love how Misty Copeland lifts up a young girl and explains how she was once a beginner, too.
The illustrations by Christopher Myers are colorful and expressive, but sometimes the body proportions are a bit disturbing.
When I heard the announcement on June 30th that she became the first African-American woman to be promoted to principal dancer in American Ballet Theater's 75-year history, I was a bit surprised that it took so long for this milestone to be broken. Our girls were astonished - they just could not believe that this was something that just happened.
We really enjoyed reading this book together and I loved the letter to the reader at the end of the book. I highly recommend this for teachers and librarians reading to a group of children.
One of my librarian friends highly recommended Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina - I borrowed it and plan to read it soon.
interesting quotes:
"darling child, don't you know
you're just where I started
let the sun shine on your face
your beginning's just begun" (p. 10)
"the space between you and me is longer than forever
and I will show them that forever is not so far away." (p. 32)
"This book is bringing my existence, and nonexistence as a young girl, to life, showing other girls and boys that they're not alone. They too can find their voice, their wings, their missing piece." (p. 34)
The illustrations by Christopher Myers are colorful and expressive, but sometimes the body proportions are a bit disturbing.
When I heard the announcement on June 30th that she became the first African-American woman to be promoted to principal dancer in American Ballet Theater's 75-year history, I was a bit surprised that it took so long for this milestone to be broken. Our girls were astonished - they just could not believe that this was something that just happened.
We really enjoyed reading this book together and I loved the letter to the reader at the end of the book. I highly recommend this for teachers and librarians reading to a group of children.
One of my librarian friends highly recommended Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina - I borrowed it and plan to read it soon.
interesting quotes:
"darling child, don't you know
you're just where I started
let the sun shine on your face
your beginning's just begun" (p. 10)
"the space between you and me is longer than forever
and I will show them that forever is not so far away." (p. 32)
"This book is bringing my existence, and nonexistence as a young girl, to life, showing other girls and boys that they're not alone. They too can find their voice, their wings, their missing piece." (p. 34)
February 22, 2016
Let's face it, Misty Copeland is an incredible dancer, but, as she tells a young girl who is wondering if she will ever be a good a dancer, that she was once in the same place - she came to dancing late, at age 13, and often lacked confidence in herself about her ability, But, she tells the young girl, with hard work and dedication, she, too, will someday reach great heights with her dancing. The language in this picture book is so simple, yet so lyrical - my favorite lines are "each position one through five/stair steps to the sky?/ that's right." Complimenting the lyrical prose are Christopher Myers illustrations/collages which are every bit as abstract and bold as the Firebird dance itself. In June 2015, Misty was the first African American to be named a principle ballerina in American Ballet Theatre's 75 year history.
May 25, 2017
3.5 out of 5
Misty Copeland's lyrical, compassionate, and inspiring free verse is perfectly matched by Christopher Myers' vibrant and dynamic collage paintings:
However, in some of the illustrations the body proportions are kind of disturbing... What's up with those tiny heads?
Misty Copeland's lyrical, compassionate, and inspiring free verse is perfectly matched by Christopher Myers' vibrant and dynamic collage paintings:
"you are the sky and clouds and air
your feet are swift as sunlight
stretching across the skyline
like the daylong sun over the horizon"
"I was a dancer just like you
a dreaming shooting star of a girl
with work and worlds ahead"
"there I am
sweating at the barre
I had a thousand leaps and falls
switching worn-out slippers
swift as applause"
"we'll make the night sky our starry curtain
the moon our silver spotlight
as we spin across the planets
pirouetting tightly as the curls on our heads"
However, in some of the illustrations the body proportions are kind of disturbing... What's up with those tiny heads?
April 14, 2023
Not counting this toward my goal because it took me like 10 minutes to read and I barely remember it but it's Misty Copeland so it automatically gets five stars 😭😭😭😊❤
March 19, 2017
I look forward to reading this with my niecy!
January 14, 2017
A standalone story that is inspired by Misty Copeland’s own rise as a ballerina.
In 2015, Firebird won the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award and the Ezra Jack Keats Book Award New Writer Honor. In 2014, it was voted an NPR Best Book, an Amazon Best Book for Ages 6–8 as well as Amazon Best Book of the Month [September], and was Essence Magazine’s Best Children’s Book. To be fair, I suspect most of these awards are because it’s written by a black ballerina with a young black heroine. No, I’m not trying to be nasty. I’m simply unimpressed with the supposed "story".
My Take
The inside end papers are a collage of textures from yellow to deepest orange. The inside graphics are similar to the cover with its modern blocks a collage of texture and color. I did love the collage effect of odd shapes of paper that make up the sky, the skyline, the water, the pavement and windows. The stage floor and the red curtain were amazing!
My favorite parts of this book are those graphics AND the fact that the young and aspiring ballerina is a young black girl. If you’re looking for a book with a black protagonist…this…is one.
Unfortunately, this is the best I can say of the book. The story itself reads more like a puff piece for Copeland with all her I, I, I. Why not give this story a sense of the personal in the young dancer? I’m rating it as a "3" simply because Myers' graphics are so amazing, but unfortunately pulled down by Copeland’s writing.
The Story
Misty thinks back over her own career as a ballerina, especially her role as the Firebird.
The Characters
Misty Copeland and a young, aspiring dancer.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a study in contrasts with its moderne blocks of pastel purple, blue, pink, and orange with a slash of firebird/ballerina a bright orange flame leaping across it. The author’s and illustrator’s names in deep purple are emblazoned across the top with a deeply flaming title flourishing in a curve across the bottom left.
The title is a role for which Misty Copeland became famous, the Firebird.
In 2015, Firebird won the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award and the Ezra Jack Keats Book Award New Writer Honor. In 2014, it was voted an NPR Best Book, an Amazon Best Book for Ages 6–8 as well as Amazon Best Book of the Month [September], and was Essence Magazine’s Best Children’s Book. To be fair, I suspect most of these awards are because it’s written by a black ballerina with a young black heroine. No, I’m not trying to be nasty. I’m simply unimpressed with the supposed "story".
My Take
The inside end papers are a collage of textures from yellow to deepest orange. The inside graphics are similar to the cover with its modern blocks a collage of texture and color. I did love the collage effect of odd shapes of paper that make up the sky, the skyline, the water, the pavement and windows. The stage floor and the red curtain were amazing!
My favorite parts of this book are those graphics AND the fact that the young and aspiring ballerina is a young black girl. If you’re looking for a book with a black protagonist…this…is one.
Unfortunately, this is the best I can say of the book. The story itself reads more like a puff piece for Copeland with all her I, I, I. Why not give this story a sense of the personal in the young dancer? I’m rating it as a "3" simply because Myers' graphics are so amazing, but unfortunately pulled down by Copeland’s writing.
The Story
Misty thinks back over her own career as a ballerina, especially her role as the Firebird.
The Characters
Misty Copeland and a young, aspiring dancer.
The Cover and Title
The cover is a study in contrasts with its moderne blocks of pastel purple, blue, pink, and orange with a slash of firebird/ballerina a bright orange flame leaping across it. The author’s and illustrator’s names in deep purple are emblazoned across the top with a deeply flaming title flourishing in a curve across the bottom left.
The title is a role for which Misty Copeland became famous, the Firebird.
February 11, 2015
with those first few lines of Firebird by Misty Copeland, the tears were already streaming down my face. I know I'm a crier by nature so perhaps the fact that I was tearing up by page one doesn't hold much weight, but I generally don't cry at the beginning of a book. That was an unexpected turn of events, I must say.
So what is it that affected me so deeply? It wasn't just the words, but seeing them paired with Christopher Myers' emotional, sweeping illustrations, in addition to seeing the symbolism of the sparse text that truly moved me.
Firebird is the story of a young girl of color who aspires to be a ballerina someday, but sees only the obstacles before her. You get the sense that Copeland is writing this story not only to all the African American girls who dream of being dancers, but also looking back at herself when she first started out. It is a book that is sure to win awards -- most likely a Coretta Scott King. But will the Caldecott committee give it some love as well? I think it certainly deserves it. Especially given how emotionally stirring the artwork is when paired with the text.
Read my entire review on my blog.
So what is it that affected me so deeply? It wasn't just the words, but seeing them paired with Christopher Myers' emotional, sweeping illustrations, in addition to seeing the symbolism of the sparse text that truly moved me.
Firebird is the story of a young girl of color who aspires to be a ballerina someday, but sees only the obstacles before her. You get the sense that Copeland is writing this story not only to all the African American girls who dream of being dancers, but also looking back at herself when she first started out. It is a book that is sure to win awards -- most likely a Coretta Scott King. But will the Caldecott committee give it some love as well? I think it certainly deserves it. Especially given how emotionally stirring the artwork is when paired with the text.
Read my entire review on my blog.
February 9, 2016
With vivid illustrations and precise, thoughtful words, Misty Copeland and Christopher Myers tell the story of a young ballerina. Those who love ballet will appreciate the depiction of Misty Copeland, an American Ballet Theatre soloist, as she guides and teaches the young ballerina, encouraging her to reach for her dreams of becoming an accomplished ballerina. In a letter to her readers at the end of the book, Copeland describes her struggle to find ballet books about African American ballerinas she could relate to, and praises those who guided her to where she is now. She explains that this book is her way of reaching out to those who will come after her.
Firebird received the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award, and is a 2015 Ezra Jack Keats Author Honor recipient. While not well versed in ballet myself, I was captivated by the way the rich illustrations and the well-chosen words worked together in sharing this hopeful story. Kindergarten through 3rd grade readers will be able to appreciate the illustrations and story. Background knowledge in ballet or Misty Copeland’s story may help enrich readers’ understanding of the story, but is not essential.
Firebird received the Coretta Scott King Illustrator Award, and is a 2015 Ezra Jack Keats Author Honor recipient. While not well versed in ballet myself, I was captivated by the way the rich illustrations and the well-chosen words worked together in sharing this hopeful story. Kindergarten through 3rd grade readers will be able to appreciate the illustrations and story. Background knowledge in ballet or Misty Copeland’s story may help enrich readers’ understanding of the story, but is not essential.
February 12, 2015
This book has brought a new perspective to my life as an educator in a diverse city.
In a poetic sort of way, "Firebird" details the story of Misty Copeland, a young professional dancer, who redefined what it means to be a ballet dancer in the professional world. Copeland, who is of Italian, German and African-American descent, started dancing at the age of 13 (believed to be too late for a ballet dancer to start his/her studies and be a successful dance) and quickly became one of the best dancers in the world, dancing for American Ballet Theater.
Along the way, is a visibly aspiring dancer who sees herself in Copeland because of the similar challenges she faces. The story progresses, paired with collage-like and dramatic illustrations, and portrays the peak of Copeland's career as a lead in Firebird. It also reflects the many things that the young dance can accomplish if she is dedicated and believes in herself.
Definitely a book that makes you want to look at life from a different perspective, giving inspiration and hope.
In a poetic sort of way, "Firebird" details the story of Misty Copeland, a young professional dancer, who redefined what it means to be a ballet dancer in the professional world. Copeland, who is of Italian, German and African-American descent, started dancing at the age of 13 (believed to be too late for a ballet dancer to start his/her studies and be a successful dance) and quickly became one of the best dancers in the world, dancing for American Ballet Theater.
Along the way, is a visibly aspiring dancer who sees herself in Copeland because of the similar challenges she faces. The story progresses, paired with collage-like and dramatic illustrations, and portrays the peak of Copeland's career as a lead in Firebird. It also reflects the many things that the young dance can accomplish if she is dedicated and believes in herself.
Definitely a book that makes you want to look at life from a different perspective, giving inspiration and hope.
January 18, 2021
Misty Copeland, the 2nd African American Soloist of the American Ballet Theatre (and the first in the last 2 decades), recent star/featured dancer in the latest Nutcracker and the 4 realms film, this is her first book, and caters perfectly to girls who may not be stereotypical ballerinas.
Copeland is a hero for culturally and racially diverse children who want to do ballet. Copeland literally guides a young Ballet protégé to her own self-worth, teaching her lessons in trusting in her own talent and skills;
simple couplet rhymes and colorful illustrations make it a feast for the eyes.
Copeland is a hero for culturally and racially diverse children who want to do ballet. Copeland literally guides a young Ballet protégé to her own self-worth, teaching her lessons in trusting in her own talent and skills;
simple couplet rhymes and colorful illustrations make it a feast for the eyes.
September 10, 2014
Beautiful picture book told in flowing verse with strong descriptions. Follow your dreams, regardless of color, believe in yourself.
I love how in the author's note Misty Copeland explains how when she looked at books about ballerinas she didn't see herself, but images "of what a ballerina should be, and she wasn't me, brown with tendrils sweeping her face."
Favorite line "I'm gray as rain heavy as naptime..."
I love how in the author's note Misty Copeland explains how when she looked at books about ballerinas she didn't see herself, but images "of what a ballerina should be, and she wasn't me, brown with tendrils sweeping her face."
Favorite line "I'm gray as rain heavy as naptime..."
June 16, 2015
disappointing. misty copeland has such a wonderful, inspiring story to tell, but i just didn't feel this particular book did it justice, nor was i inspired by the illustrations for usually dependable christopher myers. i love her story, i love the "want" to be inspirational, but, to me, the book didn't communicate that. her note to the reader at the end was wonderful, too bad the book wasn't as wonderful as her note.
November 3, 2014
The pictures are amazing. They really make the story.
April 2, 2016
Beautifully, illustrated story of a dream that can come true with hard work and dedication. Powerful reader's note by the author.
March 31, 2023
The book Firebird by Misty Copeland is an inspiring children’s book that encourages everyone that if you set your mind to it you can do anything. It follows the story of a young ballerina through her journey of self confidence and improvement. The young girl looks up to Copeland hoping to be just like her one day. As the book goes on the girl learns that Copeland was once right where she is and with practice and determination she can do great things. The message of this book, everyone has to start somewhere, is a very important lesson that needs to be shared. In modern day, social media platforms showcase people's highlight reels which inspire people but also make them think “why can’t I do that?” They don’t know it yet but they can do whatever they dream of and this children’s book shares that.
The story starts out with the words “The space between you and me is longer than forever” (Copeland). This is a very powerful line to start the story off. It refers to how sometimes it seems like you will never reach your goal no matter how hard you try. The book closes with the line “The space between you and me is longer than forever and I will show them that forever is not so far away” (Copeland). This expresses how you are closer than you think to accomplishing your dreams and that you and your inspiration are not as different as you think. This is an extremely inspirational message that doesn’t get told enough.
One other part of this book that amplified the theme of reaching your dreams through hard work was the line “Soon with the same practice you’ll join me in this dancing dream”(Copeland). Misty Copeland reached her dreams but it didn’t just happen like that. She gave everything she had and it worked. No matter how many times she fell she always got back up and that is what truly made her the amazing inspirational dancer she is today.
I would recommend this book to all children and even adults because everyone needs to know that they are capable of anything and the sky's the limit. This was an easy read which is good so it is accessible for all ages.
The story starts out with the words “The space between you and me is longer than forever” (Copeland). This is a very powerful line to start the story off. It refers to how sometimes it seems like you will never reach your goal no matter how hard you try. The book closes with the line “The space between you and me is longer than forever and I will show them that forever is not so far away” (Copeland). This expresses how you are closer than you think to accomplishing your dreams and that you and your inspiration are not as different as you think. This is an extremely inspirational message that doesn’t get told enough.
One other part of this book that amplified the theme of reaching your dreams through hard work was the line “Soon with the same practice you’ll join me in this dancing dream”(Copeland). Misty Copeland reached her dreams but it didn’t just happen like that. She gave everything she had and it worked. No matter how many times she fell she always got back up and that is what truly made her the amazing inspirational dancer she is today.
I would recommend this book to all children and even adults because everyone needs to know that they are capable of anything and the sky's the limit. This was an easy read which is good so it is accessible for all ages.
June 14, 2018
Text-to-world
"You are the sky and clouds and air your feet are swift as sunlight stretching across the skyline like the daylong sun over the horizon."
"Me? I'm gray as rain heavy as naptime, low as a storm pressing on rooftops, I could never hope to leap the space between."
This book is about a young African American girl whose teacher is trying to teach ballet, but she does not think she's good enough or will ever become as great as her teacher. Her teacher encourages her saying, "darling child, don't you know you're just where I started." Firebird is a captivating story because it demonstrates the power of someone coming alongside you and helping you, even when you don't believe in yourself. To have someone show and encourage you, letting you know it can be done, can truly take you far. Especially when that person has already done it. In a world where many people give up on their hopes and dreams because of thoughts like "I'm not good enough." I can never be..." and eventually settle for something that is easy or takes no effort because they limit themselves is very sad.
The guidance of someone that has already achieved what you want is an amazing opportunity in life. The young girl watched and copied her teacher until she can get it right and become a firebird. The teacher says, "there I am sweating at the barre I had a thousand leaps and falls switching worn-out slippers swift as applause." It encouraged her that failing many times is all part of the process. The opportunity to take advantage of teachers in our lives is a gift, someone to help and lead you down a path that's already been paved.
"You are the sky and clouds and air your feet are swift as sunlight stretching across the skyline like the daylong sun over the horizon."
"Me? I'm gray as rain heavy as naptime, low as a storm pressing on rooftops, I could never hope to leap the space between."
This book is about a young African American girl whose teacher is trying to teach ballet, but she does not think she's good enough or will ever become as great as her teacher. Her teacher encourages her saying, "darling child, don't you know you're just where I started." Firebird is a captivating story because it demonstrates the power of someone coming alongside you and helping you, even when you don't believe in yourself. To have someone show and encourage you, letting you know it can be done, can truly take you far. Especially when that person has already done it. In a world where many people give up on their hopes and dreams because of thoughts like "I'm not good enough." I can never be..." and eventually settle for something that is easy or takes no effort because they limit themselves is very sad.
The guidance of someone that has already achieved what you want is an amazing opportunity in life. The young girl watched and copied her teacher until she can get it right and become a firebird. The teacher says, "there I am sweating at the barre I had a thousand leaps and falls switching worn-out slippers swift as applause." It encouraged her that failing many times is all part of the process. The opportunity to take advantage of teachers in our lives is a gift, someone to help and lead you down a path that's already been paved.
Read
March 9, 2019Copeland M., (2014). Firebird New York: Putnam’s Sons Books.
Text to Self - I coach Middle School Football and MS Girls Track & Field. This story reminds me of the many conversations I have had over the years with kids that do not think they can do it. I am especially of Marlee. I told her at the beginning of the season that she would be training to run the 400 meter race. She cried and went into a panic because she was convinced she could not run the 400. We talked about the proper training and the appropriate timing. Weeks later, when the time came for her to actually run the 400 in meet she had a complete meltdown. I gently and firmly talked her down and reminded her that we have been preparing for this day and of the fact that she was ready. After minutes of constant crying and complaining I left her alone to decide for herself if she believed in herself because I believed in her. After much of an internal conflict, she decided she could do it. She ran the race of her life; loved the event; and is still doing it to this day.
Text to World - I believe every person on the planet has worries, and weaknesses that they need to overcome. I hope everyone has someone to encourage them to take the step of faith and go for their dreams.
Text to Text - This story reminds me of the book I am reading with my students right now. We are reading “Moo” by Sharon Creech. I laughed out loud when I read how afraid the city kids were of the cows during their first encounter with them. Even this that story, the kids overcame their fear and got a job working on a farm.
Text to Self - I coach Middle School Football and MS Girls Track & Field. This story reminds me of the many conversations I have had over the years with kids that do not think they can do it. I am especially of Marlee. I told her at the beginning of the season that she would be training to run the 400 meter race. She cried and went into a panic because she was convinced she could not run the 400. We talked about the proper training and the appropriate timing. Weeks later, when the time came for her to actually run the 400 in meet she had a complete meltdown. I gently and firmly talked her down and reminded her that we have been preparing for this day and of the fact that she was ready. After minutes of constant crying and complaining I left her alone to decide for herself if she believed in herself because I believed in her. After much of an internal conflict, she decided she could do it. She ran the race of her life; loved the event; and is still doing it to this day.
Text to World - I believe every person on the planet has worries, and weaknesses that they need to overcome. I hope everyone has someone to encourage them to take the step of faith and go for their dreams.
Text to Text - This story reminds me of the book I am reading with my students right now. We are reading “Moo” by Sharon Creech. I laughed out loud when I read how afraid the city kids were of the cows during their first encounter with them. Even this that story, the kids overcame their fear and got a job working on a farm.
January 28, 2021
Misty Copeland is an exceptional and inspirational dancer, and I have great admiration for her.
But I didn't love this book.
The free verse writing did not appeal to me.
While some of the illustrations captured the lines and movement of a dancer, others looked like 2-dimensional cutouts with odd body part placements. At times the facial expressions were finely nuanced, other times they seemed awkward.
For me, the best part was Copeland's note at the end. She writes, "The beauty of dance is being part of something that is all you, from creation to performance. You hold the power of your instrument. That instrument comes in all shapes, sizes and colors. That instrument is your body, soul and heart."
Those lines stir the dreams of an aspiring dancer.
Unfortunately, as Copeland mentions, there are too few books with ballet dancers that are not white and ultrathin. Ballet has historically been slow to change, but we need books that have evolved from George Balanchine's outdated aesthetic.
But I didn't love this book.
The free verse writing did not appeal to me.
While some of the illustrations captured the lines and movement of a dancer, others looked like 2-dimensional cutouts with odd body part placements. At times the facial expressions were finely nuanced, other times they seemed awkward.
For me, the best part was Copeland's note at the end. She writes, "The beauty of dance is being part of something that is all you, from creation to performance. You hold the power of your instrument. That instrument comes in all shapes, sizes and colors. That instrument is your body, soul and heart."
Those lines stir the dreams of an aspiring dancer.
Unfortunately, as Copeland mentions, there are too few books with ballet dancers that are not white and ultrathin. Ballet has historically been slow to change, but we need books that have evolved from George Balanchine's outdated aesthetic.
October 30, 2021
Firebird is an inspiring story that echoes Misty Copeland's rise in the American Ballet Theatre. It speaks to children who feel that they cannot achieve their dreams because they are too big. This picture books shows a mirroring of Misty and young dancer in the book. This imagery creates a feeling in the reader that they are not alone in their dreams. At the end of Firebird, Copeland explains "when I opened up ballet books, I didn't see myself. I saw an image of what a ballerina should be, and wasn't me, brown with tendrils sweeping her face. I needed to find ME." Through this explanation she is telling the reader that she has hopes that this book becomes a mirror for other young girls that don't see themselves in ballet books. It's wonderful see a book such as this when you think about the statistic that only 5% of children's books were written by African Americans in 2018 (Arnold & Sableski, 2020, p. 19). It is these kinds of books that will continue to push the #OwnVoices movement forward for children everywhere.
May 10, 2020
Firebird by Misty Copeland is under fiction but is a good Own Voices book. Dance your life away and continuing reading.
Own Voices may be something that is different or unknown to some people but to put it in simple terms its simply reflecting the author to the main character in the book. Firebird represents its main character as an African American Ballerina and the author is an African American Ballerina as well. Own Voice Books are great for those looking to have a true story that represents something the reader may be familiar with or connect with. Own Voices are only books that tie in a connection with the author. IF the author writes about a character with some sort of disorder and the author is filing their book as an Own Voice Book it should be noted that the author too should have that disorder that the character in the book has.
Own Voice Books are great for classrooms, libraries, etc. mainly because these books can be very relatable for the students reading the book.
Own Voices may be something that is different or unknown to some people but to put it in simple terms its simply reflecting the author to the main character in the book. Firebird represents its main character as an African American Ballerina and the author is an African American Ballerina as well. Own Voice Books are great for those looking to have a true story that represents something the reader may be familiar with or connect with. Own Voices are only books that tie in a connection with the author. IF the author writes about a character with some sort of disorder and the author is filing their book as an Own Voice Book it should be noted that the author too should have that disorder that the character in the book has.
Own Voice Books are great for classrooms, libraries, etc. mainly because these books can be very relatable for the students reading the book.
September 30, 2025
•The key themes for this book include self-discovery, and the pursuit of dreams. This book also touches on acceptance. Building blocks that encourage you to go after your dreams. A young dancer aspires to be just like her idol, the famed "Firebird" ballerina who worked hard to achieve her own dreams.
•Audience: 4-11 years old
•I chose this book because it is an inspiring story overcoming adversity that promotes, I like how the dance there reveals her story with the pictures.
•I will use this book in my future classroom to overcome obstacles by discussing and the importance of having role models. I would use this to spark activities that include who those important people are in their lives and talk about their true talents and passions that they like. Conduct I want to be… when I grow up.!
•Audience: 4-11 years old
•I chose this book because it is an inspiring story overcoming adversity that promotes, I like how the dance there reveals her story with the pictures.
•I will use this book in my future classroom to overcome obstacles by discussing and the importance of having role models. I would use this to spark activities that include who those important people are in their lives and talk about their true talents and passions that they like. Conduct I want to be… when I grow up.!
February 5, 2020
Genre: Diversity
Awards: Coretta Scott King Award for Illustrator (2015), Ezra Jack Keats Book Award Nominee for Writer (2015)
Audience: 5-8 years
Summary: The story is about a young African American dancer who admires Misty Copeland, but doesn’t believe she will ever be good enough. Throughout the book, Misty encourages the young dancer by telling her that she was also once a young dancer with insecurities and fears, but that through hard work and perseverance, the gap between young dancer and professional ballerina closed.
A. This book does not explore African-American culture, but instead offers encouragement and empowerment to young African-American girls. This book encourages little black girls to follow their dreams. It introduces them to Misty Copeland, who is a stellar role model for young girls.
B. Books like this break down the hideous stereotype that has been forced on black women. Representation matters!
Awards: Coretta Scott King Award for Illustrator (2015), Ezra Jack Keats Book Award Nominee for Writer (2015)
Audience: 5-8 years
Summary: The story is about a young African American dancer who admires Misty Copeland, but doesn’t believe she will ever be good enough. Throughout the book, Misty encourages the young dancer by telling her that she was also once a young dancer with insecurities and fears, but that through hard work and perseverance, the gap between young dancer and professional ballerina closed.
A. This book does not explore African-American culture, but instead offers encouragement and empowerment to young African-American girls. This book encourages little black girls to follow their dreams. It introduces them to Misty Copeland, who is a stellar role model for young girls.
B. Books like this break down the hideous stereotype that has been forced on black women. Representation matters!
May 3, 2017
Text: 5 stars
Illustrations: 5 stars
Inspiring free verse from ballerina Misty Copeland. Misty mentors a young African American dancer, and relates how her own hard work turned her dream into reality. Beautiful, vibrant, collage-type illustrations complement the poetic text. This is not really a biography, as there's not a whole lot of factual information about Misty's life and work. But what it lacks in traditional autobiographical text, it more than makes up for in artistic content, role modeling, and a feeling of triumph through obstacles.
Illustrations: 5 stars
Inspiring free verse from ballerina Misty Copeland. Misty mentors a young African American dancer, and relates how her own hard work turned her dream into reality. Beautiful, vibrant, collage-type illustrations complement the poetic text. This is not really a biography, as there's not a whole lot of factual information about Misty's life and work. But what it lacks in traditional autobiographical text, it more than makes up for in artistic content, role modeling, and a feeling of triumph through obstacles.
September 10, 2020
Beautiful book about representation and dance. The words are beautifully written. They don't rhyme in a traditional sense, but there is an attention to words and sounds when read. The beginning starts with a girl who doesn't think she can dance, and then she is told of all the ways that she will be able to. The way it's laid out, the distinction may be lost to some readers. I also feel the text clashes with the (beautiful) backgrounds, so that may be challenging to see for some readers.
June 14, 2018
Text to self.
A connection between the reader's life and experiences and the piece of literature they are reading.
The story of the young ballerina and Misty reminds me of growing up with my father. Both Misty and my father were supportive of dreams and wanted to help their protege fulfill these dreams. As failure does to people, both me and the young ballerina would occasionally become frustrated with the task or skill we were trying to learn. Misty and my father would both use the same technique of describing how they were just like us before they mastered the skill and yet with time, they did bridge that gap.
A connection between the reader's life and experiences and the piece of literature they are reading.
The story of the young ballerina and Misty reminds me of growing up with my father. Both Misty and my father were supportive of dreams and wanted to help their protege fulfill these dreams. As failure does to people, both me and the young ballerina would occasionally become frustrated with the task or skill we were trying to learn. Misty and my father would both use the same technique of describing how they were just like us before they mastered the skill and yet with time, they did bridge that gap.
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