A charming story filled with determination, LUPITA’S BROWN BALLET SLIPPERS, by debut author Steena Hernandez, illustrator Melissa Castillo, and publisher Beaming Books, dances into bookstores everywhere tomorrow, October 22, 2024.
"Lupita's big ballet recital is approaching. The music is perfect. Her ballet moves are strong. But her peachy pink ballet slippers don't match her skin tone. Lupita searches for the right pair only to discover it will take hard work--and messy measures--in order for her shoes to dance with her."
Through beautiful prose with ballet terms sprinkled throughout and sweet illustrations showing emotion and movement, young readers will dance with Lupita on her heartfelt journey. You will be rooting for Lupita to be fully included and represented in the dance world when the color of her slippers does not match her skin tone. (As Lupita says, "They don't dance with me.") Lupita shows how to be true to oneself and how to work hard to make your dreams a reality. I love the important and universal message of the book: "Everyone deserves to shine."
LUPITA'S BROWN BALLET SLIPPERS was inspired by Steena's own experiences as a Latina dancer. Steena holds a BFA in theatre, music, and dance and has even performed with the Rent Broadway tour! Back matter includes the history of ballet slippers (like Ballet Brown slippers were only available starting in 2018) as well as quotes from other dancers of color. Representation matters. I think a lot of eyes and hearts will be opened for further discussion on diversity and inclusion so I hope this book is purchased for homes, libraries...and dance studios everywhere!
Decorate, paint, and embellish your own dancer, highlighting your unique features.
LUPITA’S BROWN BALLET SLIPPERS by Steena Hernandez and Melissa Castillo
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Steena has generously offered to give away a copy of LUPITA'S BROWN BALLET SLIPPERS and one wooden ballet dancer ornament. Please go to my X (Twitter) to enter the giveaway and Instagram for an extra chance at winning this informative BOOK! (U.S. only)
ICYMI
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