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Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina Young Readers Edition
Last updated Wednesday, March 9, 2022
Author: Misty Copeland
Date of Publication: 2016
ISBN: 1481479792
Grade Level: 5th (GLCs: Click here for grade level guidelines.)
Date(s) Used: Mar. 2022
Synopsis:
Determination meets dance in this New York Times bestselling memoir by the history-making ballerina Misty Copeland, recounting the story of her journey to become the first African-American principal ballerina at the prestigious American Ballet Theatre.
When she first placed her hands on the barre at an after-school community center, no one expected the undersized, underprivileged, and anxious thirteen-year-old to become one of America’s most groundbreaking dancers . A true prodigy, she was attempting in months roles that take most dancers years to master. But when Misty became caught between the control and comfort she found in the world of ballet and the harsh realities of her own life, she had to choose to embrace both her identity and her dreams, and find the courage to be one of a kind.
With an insider’s passion, Misty opens a window into the life of an artist who lives life center stage, from behind the scenes at her first classes to her triumphant roles in some of the world’s most iconic ballets.
| Note to readers: |
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This videoclip from Misty's documentary shows some of the actual events and places that she talks
about is this biography. (skip ahead to time 1:16-2:16) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BqZkfDEoQDI
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The first chapters of this book deal with issues of racism and different family structures. For instance,
Misty talks about how one stepfather treated her with favoritism over her step siblings.
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| Discussion topics for before reading: |
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The title of this book captures Misty's feeling that she has always been in motion. Her family life was constantly changing, moving from home to home and saying goodbye and hello to different family members. She was also drawn to activities that were about movement from gymnastics to drill team to ballet. She used dance as an escape from her living conditions. Do you have something that you turn to whenever you want to escape your problems?
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Misty dealt with a lot of bias, racism, and ignorance within the world of ballet. What are some stereotypes about ballerinas?
Vocabulary:
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transfixed: held motionless, fixed in place
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mesmerized: fascinated, spell-bound, induced in an hypnotic trance
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choreography: the art of arranging and composing dances
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mentor: someone who plays an important role in another person's life as a guide, adviser or teacher
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prodigy: a person (usually a young person) of exceptional talent or ability
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| Discussion topics for during/after reading: |
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How does Misty feel about ballet at first? Why was she nervous to join the class?
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Do you think she would have persisted to study ballet without the help of her teachers?
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Misty says that she was nomally very shy and anxious but somehow she felt right at home when it came to performing. When she was on stage, she felt strong and in control. What kind of things do YOU feel more confident doing?
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What kinds of difficulties did Misty experience growing up?
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How do you think Misty's mother feels when Misty moves in with her teacher?
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How was Misty different from other ballet dancers?
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Why did her teachers call her a "prodigy"?
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| Special activities: |
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We have a special video to share at our March 12, 2022 reading clubs! Volunteers for those clubs will receive the link to that YouTube video in their "Final Reminder..." email on Friday, March 11, 2022, along with directions on how to share a YouTube video on Zoom.
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Misty's first stage performance was a lip-sync and dance routine to "Please Mr. Postman" in a talent show. Have a lip-sync contest to the same song or let the kids pick their own songs
Original by the Marvelettes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9jZyAnp6O8Y
Beatles version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jzy4R8EbWJ4
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*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions.
You can use them, but you don't have to use them.
You can expand upon them, or add your own twist.
Remember, though, that the focus of your time should
not be on the development and execution of a craft;
the focus should be on the read-aloud and the
enjoyment of the book!
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