A Dance Like Starlight
Author:Kristy Dempsey Illustrator: Floyd Cooper
Philomel Books, 2014
Picture Book
In fairy tales you can always count on a star to grant you your wildest desires, but that doesn't quite apply to African Americans living in Harlem during the 1950's. This story follows a young girl who dreams of attending the best ballet school and leaping among the best of the best. The young girl's mother is there to show her that dreams don't work unless you do, and there is no need for wishing on stars when you have hope in your heart. With hard work and dedication she finds her dream coming true, one leap and turn at a time. She even wonders, "Could a colored girl like me ever become a prima ballerina?" Will this young dreamer find the inspiration that she needs to keep her hope alive?
Floyd Cooper's illustrations seems so realistic and alive. The hues used are pink and brown tones. The illustrations show so much emotion and really make you feel any meaning the author is conveying. The paintings really bring the story of this little ballerina's dream to life.
This story could be perfect in a Social Studies lesson in a 4th grade classroom. This story took place during the Civil Rights Movement in America. This story showcases the life of an African American whose skin color did not hold her back from chasing her dreams. The advantage of using this book for a lesson on Civil Rights is getting the children to see a different perspective. This book can also lead into a discussion of other important figures that inspired integration and equality for African Americans in America. After reading this to my class, I could have them write about famous figures that inspire them to chase their dreams.
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