Alicia Alonso Takes the Stage

Gr 1-3–Ballerinas and readers interested in dance will be enthralled by this series addition. Known for their inspiring historical fiction, this “Rebel Girls” installment tells the coming-of-age story of world-renowned ballerina Alicia Alonso, and her challenges and accomplishments as a dancer. Alicia’s love of dancing began as a small child performing for her family each evening. This passion for dance blossomed into a dream that Alicia longed to fulfill. Growing up in Cuba and living in Spain for a short period of time, Alicia learned Cuban and Spanish dances. But her true love was ballet, for which she moved to the United States. The story chronicles Alicia’s struggles as a dancer, including a physical eye impairment that made her start losing her sight. This chapter book is brimming with colorful illustrations that will help readers imagine the events in Alicia’s life unfolding. The back of the book contains extension activities related to dance and movement.