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She Persisted
She Persisted: Maria Tallchief
Inspired by the #1 New York Times bestseller She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton and Alexandra Boiger comes a chapter book series about women who stood up, spoke up and rose up against the odds--including Maria Tallchief!
In this chapter book biography by award-winning author Christine Day, readers learn about the amazing life of Maria Tallchief--and how she persisted.
Maria Tallchief loved to dance, but was told that she might need to change her Osage name to one that sounded more Russian to make it as a professional ballerina. She refused, and worked hard at dancing her best, becoming America's first prima ballerina. Many famous American ballets were created for Maria!
Complete with an introduction from Chelsea Clinton!
In this chapter book biography by award-winning author Christine Day, readers learn about the amazing life of Maria Tallchief--and how she persisted.
Maria Tallchief loved to dance, but was told that she might need to change her Osage name to one that sounded more Russian to make it as a professional ballerina. She refused, and worked hard at dancing her best, becoming America's first prima ballerina. Many famous American ballets were created for Maria!
Complete with an introduction from Chelsea Clinton!
96 pages, Paperback
First published November 2, 2021
9 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
About the author
Christine Day
7 books299 followersChristine Day (Upper Skagit) grew up in Seattle, nestled between the sea, the mountains, and the pages of her favorite books. Her debut novel, I CAN MAKE THIS PROMISE (Harper), was a best book of the year from Kirkus, School Library Journal, NPR, and the Chicago Public Library, as well as a Charlotte Huck Award Honor Book, and an American Indian Youth Literature Award Honor Book. Her second novel, THE SEA IN WINTER (Harper/Heartdrum), is coming to shelves on January 5, 2021. She also wrote the forthcoming SHE PERSISTED: MARIA TALLCHIEF (Philomel), an early reader biography in a new series inspired by Chelsea Clinton's bestselling picture book. Christine lives in the Pacific Northwest with her husband.
Her work is represented by Suzie Townsend at New Leaf Literary & Media, Inc.
Her work is represented by Suzie Townsend at New Leaf Literary & Media, Inc.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
March 6, 2025
Me picking this up in audio form while scrolling through libby is the epitome of mood reader 😂 even though this was a chapter book read it was informative and interesting. The story follows Maria TallCheif a native American from the Osage tribe who became America's first Prima Ballerina. I would like to one day read more about her, this was an intriguing short listen
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April 1, 2025Book Review: She Persisted: Maria Tallchief by Christine Day, illustrated by Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint
She Persisted: Maria Tallchief is an inspiring chapter book biography that is part of the acclaimed She Persisted series, which highlights the stories of remarkable women who have made significant contributions to society. Authored by Christine Day and featuring illustrations by Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint, this book offers young readers an engaging and informative look at the life of Maria Tallchief, the first Native American prima ballerina.
Narrative Style and Structure
Christine Day adopts a clear and engaging narrative style suitable for a middle-grade audience, seamlessly blending biographical detail with compelling storytelling. The book is structured to chronicle Tallchief’s journey from her early life in Oklahoma to her rise as a celebrated dancer with the New York City Ballet. Each chapter emphasizes critical moments in her life, showcasing her determination and resilience in overcoming obstacles related to race, gender, and the competitive world of ballet. The narrative effectively captures the essence of Tallchief’s character, weaving in themes of persistence, identity, and cultural pride.
Illustrative Contribution
The illustrations by Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint complement the text beautifully, providing visual context that enhances the reader’s experience. Their art captures the grace and elegance of Tallchief’s dance, as well as the vibrant cultural elements of her Native American heritage. The illustrations are characterized by a soft color palette and expressive imagery, which not only engage young readers but also resonate with the emotions depicted in the text. This visual representation serves to enrich the narrative, making Tallchief’s story more accessible and impactful.
Themes of Resilience and Identity
Central to She Persisted: Maria Tallchief are themes of resilience, identity, and the power of self-advocacy. The book emphasizes the importance of persistence in achieving one’s dreams, particularly in fields traditionally dominated by others. Maria’s journey reflects a broader narrative about the struggles and triumphs faced by women, especially women of color, in pursuing their passions. The book encourages readers to embrace their unique identities and to understand the value of hard work and determination in the face of adversity.
Cultural and Educational Significance
This biography serves not only as a captivating story but also as a critical educational resource, introducing young readers to the rich history of Native American culture and the arts. By highlighting Tallchief’s achievements, the book fosters discussions about representation, diversity, and the challenges that underrepresented groups face in achieving success. It also aligns with educational curricula focused on history and the arts, making it a valuable addition to classroom libraries and teaching materials.
Conclusion
In conclusion, She Persisted: Maria Tallchief is a beautifully crafted and engaging narrative that successfully illuminates the life of a trailblazing artist. Christine Day’s compelling storytelling, combined with the evocative illustrations by Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint, creates a rich and inspiring reading experience for children. This book not only honors Maria Tallchief’s legacy but also empowers young readers to persevere in their pursuits while being proud of their heritage. It is an essential resource for parents and educators seeking to inspire the next generation through stories of courage, resilience, and cultural pride.
She Persisted: Maria Tallchief is an inspiring chapter book biography that is part of the acclaimed She Persisted series, which highlights the stories of remarkable women who have made significant contributions to society. Authored by Christine Day and featuring illustrations by Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint, this book offers young readers an engaging and informative look at the life of Maria Tallchief, the first Native American prima ballerina.
Narrative Style and Structure
Christine Day adopts a clear and engaging narrative style suitable for a middle-grade audience, seamlessly blending biographical detail with compelling storytelling. The book is structured to chronicle Tallchief’s journey from her early life in Oklahoma to her rise as a celebrated dancer with the New York City Ballet. Each chapter emphasizes critical moments in her life, showcasing her determination and resilience in overcoming obstacles related to race, gender, and the competitive world of ballet. The narrative effectively captures the essence of Tallchief’s character, weaving in themes of persistence, identity, and cultural pride.
Illustrative Contribution
The illustrations by Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint complement the text beautifully, providing visual context that enhances the reader’s experience. Their art captures the grace and elegance of Tallchief’s dance, as well as the vibrant cultural elements of her Native American heritage. The illustrations are characterized by a soft color palette and expressive imagery, which not only engage young readers but also resonate with the emotions depicted in the text. This visual representation serves to enrich the narrative, making Tallchief’s story more accessible and impactful.
Themes of Resilience and Identity
Central to She Persisted: Maria Tallchief are themes of resilience, identity, and the power of self-advocacy. The book emphasizes the importance of persistence in achieving one’s dreams, particularly in fields traditionally dominated by others. Maria’s journey reflects a broader narrative about the struggles and triumphs faced by women, especially women of color, in pursuing their passions. The book encourages readers to embrace their unique identities and to understand the value of hard work and determination in the face of adversity.
Cultural and Educational Significance
This biography serves not only as a captivating story but also as a critical educational resource, introducing young readers to the rich history of Native American culture and the arts. By highlighting Tallchief’s achievements, the book fosters discussions about representation, diversity, and the challenges that underrepresented groups face in achieving success. It also aligns with educational curricula focused on history and the arts, making it a valuable addition to classroom libraries and teaching materials.
Conclusion
In conclusion, She Persisted: Maria Tallchief is a beautifully crafted and engaging narrative that successfully illuminates the life of a trailblazing artist. Christine Day’s compelling storytelling, combined with the evocative illustrations by Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint, creates a rich and inspiring reading experience for children. This book not only honors Maria Tallchief’s legacy but also empowers young readers to persevere in their pursuits while being proud of their heritage. It is an essential resource for parents and educators seeking to inspire the next generation through stories of courage, resilience, and cultural pride.
July 11, 2024
I grew up loving to dance. My years of taking ballet lessons are amongst some of my happiest memories.
I am chagrined to notice that my education in great prima ballerinas was lacking the first American-born prima ballerina, Maria Tallchief! I loved that I got to know some of her story through this book, and thrilled to know that she originated roles in both 'Orpheus', as well as 'Firebird'!
I think that books that encourage the reader to 'find out more' are among the best books out there, and I'm off to learn more about this extraordinary woman!
I am chagrined to notice that my education in great prima ballerinas was lacking the first American-born prima ballerina, Maria Tallchief! I loved that I got to know some of her story through this book, and thrilled to know that she originated roles in both 'Orpheus', as well as 'Firebird'!
I think that books that encourage the reader to 'find out more' are among the best books out there, and I'm off to learn more about this extraordinary woman!
September 22, 2025
Reviewed for THC Reviews
Maria Tallchief is a children’s, early chapter book biography in the She Persisted series that originally started with Chelsea Clinton’s picture books and later grew into this multi-author chapter book series. If you’re unfamiliar with the subject of this book, Maria Tallchief was a half-Native American from the Osage tribe who became the first American to achieve prima ballerina status. She was born in Oklahoma in 1925 during the time when the Osage tribe enjoyed wealth from the oil found on their reservation. From an early age, she enjoyed performing, so her mother, who had wanted to dance but never gotten the chance to, put her in ballet classes. Later they moved to Los Angeles where Maria (who was known to her family as Betty) continued with her lessons. By the time she was grown, she knew she wanted to be in a ballet company, but the opportunities for her in L.A. were limited, so she went to New York City. There she worked her way up to become a star attraction for two different ballet companies and admired around the world for her talent. She starred in many famous ballets, including being the first to play the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker. Her rise to stardom wasn’t without difficulties, though, as it was once suggested that she change her name to sound more Russian in order to succeed, but she refused. In her retirement, she still continued to promote the art of ballet by teaching and mentoring others, and eventually she was given several awards for her work. She also became an activist for Native American causes.
I’ve been interested in the She Persisted series since I first discovered it. The authors seem to cover a wide variety of notable women, all of whom would make great role models for my spirited granddaughter to read about. Maria Tallchief is my first foray into the series and I thought it was a great book. It covers this talented ballerina through her life from birth to death, hitting all the high points in between, while also highlighting many of the challenges she faced along the way to achieving all that she did. I also like that the author briefly touched on the Osage nation and how they were once wealthy, as I’ve been very interested in reading Killers of the Flower Moon and watching the movie, which I know covers this bit of Native American history. Another selling point for me is that the author herself is of Native American heritage and I enjoy own voices stories. The book also has suggested ways in which the young reader can persist at the end, along with references for further reading on Maria Tallchief. Overall, I was very impressed with my first read in this series and look forward to checking out more of the books soon.
Maria Tallchief is a children’s, early chapter book biography in the She Persisted series that originally started with Chelsea Clinton’s picture books and later grew into this multi-author chapter book series. If you’re unfamiliar with the subject of this book, Maria Tallchief was a half-Native American from the Osage tribe who became the first American to achieve prima ballerina status. She was born in Oklahoma in 1925 during the time when the Osage tribe enjoyed wealth from the oil found on their reservation. From an early age, she enjoyed performing, so her mother, who had wanted to dance but never gotten the chance to, put her in ballet classes. Later they moved to Los Angeles where Maria (who was known to her family as Betty) continued with her lessons. By the time she was grown, she knew she wanted to be in a ballet company, but the opportunities for her in L.A. were limited, so she went to New York City. There she worked her way up to become a star attraction for two different ballet companies and admired around the world for her talent. She starred in many famous ballets, including being the first to play the Sugar Plum Fairy in The Nutcracker. Her rise to stardom wasn’t without difficulties, though, as it was once suggested that she change her name to sound more Russian in order to succeed, but she refused. In her retirement, she still continued to promote the art of ballet by teaching and mentoring others, and eventually she was given several awards for her work. She also became an activist for Native American causes.
I’ve been interested in the She Persisted series since I first discovered it. The authors seem to cover a wide variety of notable women, all of whom would make great role models for my spirited granddaughter to read about. Maria Tallchief is my first foray into the series and I thought it was a great book. It covers this talented ballerina through her life from birth to death, hitting all the high points in between, while also highlighting many of the challenges she faced along the way to achieving all that she did. I also like that the author briefly touched on the Osage nation and how they were once wealthy, as I’ve been very interested in reading Killers of the Flower Moon and watching the movie, which I know covers this bit of Native American history. Another selling point for me is that the author herself is of Native American heritage and I enjoy own voices stories. The book also has suggested ways in which the young reader can persist at the end, along with references for further reading on Maria Tallchief. Overall, I was very impressed with my first read in this series and look forward to checking out more of the books soon.
June 30, 2022
Christine Day is best known for I Can Make This Promise, but don't sleep on this nonfiction title. It's a genuine take on the young Osage dancer Maria Tallchief's life. There is context provided that is not overly graphic considering other titles out there today (Killers of the Flower Moon: Adapted for Young Readers: The Osage Murders and the Birth of the FBI). There is some hint of the danger of being a well off, Native young person at the turn of the 20th century. Of course, there is some light discussion of residential boarding schools, but it is done sensitively and leaves room for young readers to explore the subject on their own at their own level.
The focus of this book is not on her singular achievements as a Native American or Osage woman, but as an American ground-breaking artist who exploded many firsts across the globe. She popularized many ballet standards that would become pivotal to the future of the field's general popularity like "Dance of the Sugarplum Fairies" from the Nutcracker Ballet (and considering the horrifying source material, it's no surprise why the popularity hadn't quite exploded yet Nutcracker and Mouse King and the Tale of the Nutcracker) and Firebird (which many recognize from fellow groundbreaking dancer Misty Copeland). The magnitude of her fame and skill are explored in a way that maintains the interest of the readers.
More than being one of the persisting firsts, the author shows the trail she cut for future dancers to come after her from all backgrounds.
The focus of this book is not on her singular achievements as a Native American or Osage woman, but as an American ground-breaking artist who exploded many firsts across the globe. She popularized many ballet standards that would become pivotal to the future of the field's general popularity like "Dance of the Sugarplum Fairies" from the Nutcracker Ballet (and considering the horrifying source material, it's no surprise why the popularity hadn't quite exploded yet Nutcracker and Mouse King and the Tale of the Nutcracker) and Firebird (which many recognize from fellow groundbreaking dancer Misty Copeland). The magnitude of her fame and skill are explored in a way that maintains the interest of the readers.
More than being one of the persisting firsts, the author shows the trail she cut for future dancers to come after her from all backgrounds.
January 6, 2022
This is a great chapter book biography about an indigenous ballerina. It is simple and easy to read, with great illustrations, providing a glimpse into Maria Tallchief's childhood, career, and advocacy.
My one critique is about the quote on the back of the book. I have already returned the book to the library, so I can't quote it directly, but it was something like, "It never would have occurred to me to say, 'No, that hurts.'" I would assume that in context, Tallchief was simply saying that she persisted in the face of difficult odds, mastering a challenging sport without backing down. However, since the book doesn't provide any context, it seems to imply that children shouldn't speak up for themselves, set boundaries, or respect their physical and mental limits. I don't know enough about the full statement to make any judgment about what Tallchief actually said, but I am shocked that a publisher in the 2020s would think this was a good quote to isolate on the back of a book for young children.
My one critique is about the quote on the back of the book. I have already returned the book to the library, so I can't quote it directly, but it was something like, "It never would have occurred to me to say, 'No, that hurts.'" I would assume that in context, Tallchief was simply saying that she persisted in the face of difficult odds, mastering a challenging sport without backing down. However, since the book doesn't provide any context, it seems to imply that children shouldn't speak up for themselves, set boundaries, or respect their physical and mental limits. I don't know enough about the full statement to make any judgment about what Tallchief actually said, but I am shocked that a publisher in the 2020s would think this was a good quote to isolate on the back of a book for young children.
May 10, 2022
Maria TallChief is part of the “She Persisted” series which is meant to inspire both young girls and young people of color to see how other people persisted and overcame their own trials to obtain their dreams. Maria TallChief was a Native American from the Osage tribe who became America’s first Prima Ballerina.
While this is my first foray into the “She Persisted” series, I believe, I love this idea more than I can explain. It is such a great way to inspire the younger generation by showing them people that can be their heroes and role models.
Although this is just a chapter book, it is filled with many key facts about Maria‘s life. In fact this book has inspired me to look into a more in-depth look at Maria TallChief’s life and even try to see if their is video recordings of her performances.
G- There is nothing offensive in this book.
While this is my first foray into the “She Persisted” series, I believe, I love this idea more than I can explain. It is such a great way to inspire the younger generation by showing them people that can be their heroes and role models.
Although this is just a chapter book, it is filled with many key facts about Maria‘s life. In fact this book has inspired me to look into a more in-depth look at Maria TallChief’s life and even try to see if their is video recordings of her performances.
G- There is nothing offensive in this book.
March 28, 2022
This was the first of the small "She Persisted" biographies I read and it prompted me to read others. Students usually get assigned one person to study when they do a biography and they frequently choose the person before knowing too much about the person or they choose them because of some popularity factor. These biographies are a great size to read to get to know a little bit about some amazing women before having to completely dive into a full-fledged biography. It allows them to read biographies for pleasure and to become familiar with many great women and all the amazing things they do. I can see having a number of these in my classroom library or recommending they go to the public library to see what's possible.
February 7, 2025
This is a library book I took out for February Book Fest. An excellent short and true story about Maria Tallchief and how she became a prima ballerina, one of the best in the world. She was born in the Osage Nation in Oklahoma, then her family moved to California. She and her sister both took ballet classes. She trained under Madame Nijinska at age 15 and was cast in a lead role at the Hollywood Bowl. Later she worked with George Balanchine (who she married) at the New York City Ballet in addition to the Chicago City Ballet and the Paris Opera ballet. She passed away at age 88 having had a wonderful dance career.
March 16, 2022
Part of the She Persisted biographies series.
Readers learn about Tallchief's life from early childhood through her death in 2013. The final chapter covers her legacy. Day uses easy to follow language for younger readers and brings out the challenges she overcame and her passion for dance and her culture.
I appreciate the concrete ideas given at the end of these books for readers to find their own ways to explore and grow. The references offer readers ways to learn more about Maria Tallchief.
Readers learn about Tallchief's life from early childhood through her death in 2013. The final chapter covers her legacy. Day uses easy to follow language for younger readers and brings out the challenges she overcame and her passion for dance and her culture.
I appreciate the concrete ideas given at the end of these books for readers to find their own ways to explore and grow. The references offer readers ways to learn more about Maria Tallchief.
December 9, 2021
I'm sad to say that I had never heard of Maria Tallchief before reading this series, but I am so glad to know about her now! What an incredible story of strength, passion, and perseverance! Some of my favorite how you can persist tips from this title were:
Be respectful of other people's names.
Visit tribally managed museums, cultural centers, or public powwows to celebrate and support the Native American Community.
Speak out against bullies.
Be respectful of other people's names.
Visit tribally managed museums, cultural centers, or public powwows to celebrate and support the Native American Community.
Speak out against bullies.
March 2, 2022
The She Persisted mini chapter book biography series are perfect for elementary and intermediate age students interested in learning about the featured person for an assignment or just for an informative book about important women in history. Before reading this, I don't think I ever heard the name Maria Tallchief, since I know nothing about ballet. However, Chrisine Day did a good job on writing this mini-biography in a way that will make readers want to learn more. I'm sure if you are someone who knows anything about ballet, this would be an even more exciting read.
March 16, 2022
Maria Tallchief is a biography based on the She Persisted picture book series. The text is interesting and accessible by elementary students and a book that should be included in a the biography section of most elementary schools. There are many black and white pictures throughout the book that will keep an elementary child engaged with the story of Maria. The book includes an epilogue with advice on how you can persist in your own life. The book includes references.
March 2, 2023
So glad to read this book about the Native American girl who was the first American to dance on many foreign stages and the first American to earn the title of prima ballerina. 'Maria Tallchief is still widely considered to be one of the greatest and most influential ballerinas in history.' Wonderful encouraging story. After she retired she became more active in Native American causes. Children should read this book. Wonderful illustrations.
December 6, 2023
Good for her! 👏👏
Maybe it was the cover, but....for some reason I assumed Maria Tallchief was African American 😅
Turns out she was Native American! And talented dancer. Dancing is competitive and we all know there are.....less than ethic practices that go on in the background. At one point they wanted Maria to change her name to a more Russian sounding name, but she refuses, being proud of her heritage! Good for her for putting her foot down and not denying who she was! 👏👏👏
Maybe it was the cover, but....for some reason I assumed Maria Tallchief was African American 😅
Turns out she was Native American! And talented dancer. Dancing is competitive and we all know there are.....less than ethic practices that go on in the background. At one point they wanted Maria to change her name to a more Russian sounding name, but she refuses, being proud of her heritage! Good for her for putting her foot down and not denying who she was! 👏👏👏
November 29, 2021
I love the details here. How each time she makes a move there is a land acknowledgement piece to it. The translations of the chapter headings into Osage language. There's a lot of attention to detail that makes an already lovely and interesting story sing all the more.
If you have a kid who likes the Who Was books, give them this series.
If you have a kid who likes the Who Was books, give them this series.
January 7, 2022
Another great book in the She Persisted series. I had not known who Maria Tallchief was before reading this book. It was very interesting and told about her whole life and all the amazing things she accomplished. I loved the actions in the back like honoring people's names. Will definitely be ordering for my school library.
March 27, 2022
Chapter book biography of Maria Tallchief. Doesn't tell about Maria's piano lessons and that she had to choose between music and ballet. Does take her story from her parents meeting through to her death, including founding the school in Chicago, her Native American activism, and some of her later-in-life awards.
Actual text is under 50 pages. Aimed at kids who enjoy the American Girl books.
Actual text is under 50 pages. Aimed at kids who enjoy the American Girl books.
June 3, 2022
My 9-year-old daughter and I have been listening to the She Persisted series in the car. I think they are well done. Reminds me a lot of the Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls podcast and book. They give us good topics to discuss and I like the takeaways listed at the end of each book, ideas for how you can make a difference in your own life, the way the subject of the book did.
December 2, 2025
This beautiful author can to visit our s hook district and my vice principal bought me this signed copy. I read it to my students and I don’t know who was most inspired - me or them. It makes me want to read the whole “She persisted” series. The book teaches perseverance, overcoming bullying, grit, hard work, dedication and being true to oneself.
December 15, 2025
I think this installment did a good job at least touching upon difficult topics and concepts as important to Tallchief's life and career, such as colonialism, boarding schools, racism especially in dance, and health issues from ballet. It also mentioned the many legacies Maria Tallchief created to leave the ladder hanging for those, especially BIPOC dancers who followed her.
March 4, 2022
Kids already love the Who Was... books, so I think they'll pick these up as a similar size, length, and format. Brilliant marketing, brief, informative, and perfect for Women's History Month and ALL those bio projects in elementary school.
March 9, 2022
Another winning book by Christine Day. This is an excellent biography that reads well and engaging for our younger MG/ older elem readers. Tackles difficult topics with an expert hand. Inspiring - would absolutely recommend.
March 25, 2022
This book shows that even people who have been bullied can change history. This book shows children to be kind and respect others especially when it comes to respect the one super special thing that makes each person unique, their name.
January 5, 2023
I love where this series, originally started by Chelsea Clinton, has gone. The picture books were great but adding more in depth short chapter books provides so much more information for the young reader. Learning more about Native prima ballerina Maria Tallchief was fascinating.
August 25, 2023
Great short biography of Maria Tallchief -- love that emphasis on the history of the Osage tribe, love that the author has a personal connection to dance in addition to her indigenous heritage. Tallchief is extraordinary and it's great to see more about her available for young readers.
January 10, 2025
A good book - it was very interesting to learn that information about Maria Tallchief and her legendary career. I did not know she was at one time married to Balanchine or how involved she was with advocacy.
January 16, 2022
I'm really enjoying reading this series to my 4th grade students.
March 7, 2022
Fascinating, I love some of the ballets mentioned and seeing how Tallchief was involved in their history and them in hers was really enjoyable.
March 28, 2022
Great book--Very informative and very inspiring.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews