LETTERS TO MISTY: HOW TO MOVE THROUGH LIFE WITH CONFIDENCE AND GRACE, By Misty Copeland and Nikki Shannon Smith, Aladdin, May 6, 2025, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)
Misty Copeland offers advice for on and off the dance floor in Letters to Misty: How to Move Through Life with Confidence and Grace.
As the first African American principal female dancer at American Ballet Theatre, Misty Copeland has spent most of her career navigating a white-dominated industry that puts many barriers in her path. Through it all, Misty has credited the many mentors who have helped her become the dancer and person she is today.
With Misty’s profile now at peak heights, she has now found herself in a mentor role herself, often asked for advice on everything from dance-specific questions to life lessons about being the “other” in certain spaces by her fans. As Misty herself has said, “I think it’s really important to have a community around you, a support system, mentors, people that are going to be there for you on those days when you just aren’t strong enough to do it yourself.”
Given that philosophy, Misty is thrilled to bring this book of advice to life, covering everything from body confidence to balancing various commitments and how to break out of your comfort zone. Each section includes personal anecdotes from Misty about the topic that bring her perspective to life. —Synopsis provided by Aladdin
Letters to Misty is s thoughtful, conversational read that will immediately appeal to dancers, but will resonate with readers beyond the stage.
The book is divided into five chapters: “Attitude” — Love Yourself First; “Développé” — Discover Yourself; “Relevé” — Risisng Above Challenges; “Grand Jeté” — Challenge Yourself; and “Assemblé” — Putting It All Together. Within each chapter there are headings and questions that provide natural resting points.
As a mentor, Misty offers hopeful, positive advice while sharing some of her own personal experiences. She advocates for balance, self-reflection, and self-love.
Letters to Misty is a good option for the dancer in your life.
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