The young reader’s edition of Misty Copeland's memoir, Life in Motion: an Unlikely Ballerina, which she wrote with Brandy Colbert, is an amazing story. She dedicated the book “[t]o all ballerinas and dancers of the world. Our art is vital. Let’s keep it alive, growing, and expanding!” and that dedication seems absolutely representative of her passion and her generosity.

Besides being a memoir of her struggles and triumphs in the world of dance, and a bit of an expose of how unwelcoming classical ballet can be to minorities, it's also a tremendously encouraging book for young readers, especially aspiring young dancers and artists. I recommend it to anyone curious about her journey, whether in a creative field or not. Her insight and intelligence has value to any readers, of any age, as do her grace and determination, amply demonstrated here.

And if you're older reader and like to learn more about Copeland's journey, an original version, with nearly 100 more pages, is available, as well.

BOOK: Life in Motion: an Unlikely Ballerina (Young Reader's Edition)

AUTHOR: Misty Copeland with Brady Colbert

YEAR OF PUBLICATION: 2016

IMAGE: book cover, Aladdin