Book Cover Image of Brown Girls Do Ballet: Celebrating Diverse Girls Taking Center Stage by Takiyah Wallace-McMillian and Janay Brown-Wood

Brown Girls Do Ballet: Celebrating Diverse Girls Taking Center Stage
by Takiyah Wallace-McMillian and Janay Brown-Wood

    Publication Date: Aug 27, 2024
    List Price: $18.99
    Format: Hardcover, 40 pages
    Classification: Nonfiction
    Target Age Group: Early Reader
    ISBN13: 9780762487592
    Imprint: Black Dog & Leventhal
    Publisher: Hachette Book Group
    Parent Company: Lagardère Group

    Description of Brown Girls Do Ballet: Celebrating Diverse Girls Taking Center Stage by Takiyah Wallace-McMillian and Janay Brown-Wood

    This stunning children’s book from the photographer behind the Instagram sensation Brown Girls Do Ballet, combines irresistible photos of young ballerinas of color with inspirational text that empowers all children to express their true selves through movement and music.

    When TaKiyah Wallace–McMillian went to enroll her three–year–old daughter into her first ballet class, she immediately noticed the lack of diversity of backgrounds and abilities among the students pictured on the school’s website. In response, TaKiyah, a photographer, began taking pictures of young dancers of color and launched an Instagram called Brown Girls Do Ballet. The Instagram was an instant sensation, drawing a community of dancers of all ages. A nonprofit organization, that provides resources, mentoring, and inspiration worldwide followed soon after.

    Takiyah’s first children’s book is full of gorgeous photographs of irresistible young BIPOC ballerinas of all levels — from beginners to more experienced dancers. Writer JaNay Brown–Wood’s poetic text, inspired by the dancer’s graceful poses and powerful leaps, encourages young readers be proud of who they are and empowers them to take center stage. Brown Girls Do Ballet will inspire all readers to pursue their dreams no matter what barriers are put in front of them.