Alicia Alonso Takes the Stage

July 13, 2020
Cheerful persistence and chatty relatability recur in this fictionalized biography of Cuban prima ballerina Alicia Alonso (1920–2019). When Alonso leaves Cuba for New York City, she gives herself a pep talk: “I can do this, she told herself. I can make my own way.” Short, conversational chapters punctuated by on-trend digital illustrations sketch Alonso’s dance-obsessed childhood; marriage, move to the U.S., and motherhood; and relentless work ethic. When Alonso’s eyesight deteriorates, she persists: Visually impaired, she builds a successful career—starring in Giselle and later launching what would become the Ballet Nacional de Cuba. An afterword provides additional context on events in Alonso’s life, including the Cuban Revolution. Includes ballet-inspired movement activities on claiming space. Ages 7–10.