My Story, My Dance

Simon & Schuster/Paula Wiseman Books, 2015

illustrated by James Ransome

A boy discovers his passion for dance and becomes a modern hero in this inspiring picture book biography of Robert Battle, artistic director of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

When Robert Battle was a boy wearing leg braces, he never dreamed he’d study at Juilliard. Though most dancers begin training at an early age, it wasn’t until Robert was a teenager that his appreciation for movement first from martial arts, then for ballet became his passion. But support from his family and teachers paired with his desire and determination made it possible for Robert to excel. After years of hard work, the young man who was so inspired by a performance of Alvin Ailey’s Revelations became the artistic director of the very company that motivated him. Today, under Robert’s leadership, Alvin Ailey continues to represent the African American spirit through dance.

"In the hands of the Ransomes, a husband-and-wife team, Robert’s life is a classic inspirational story of family love, faith and passionate artistic devotion." —New York Times Book Review

★ Starred review, Kirkus  CCBC Choices 2016 Kansas NEA Reading Circle List Intermediate Title ILA Notable Books for a Global Society MSTA Reading Circle List
Orbis Pictus Recommended Book
ALA Notable
Bank Street Best Book of 2015

Available at:
Bookshop
Indiebound
Amazon