NOT a "Ballerina" - a mini review

Bunheads


Written by: Sophie Flack

Released: October 10, 2011 by Poppy

Summary: As a dancer with the ultra-prestigious Manhattan Ballet Company, nineteen-year-old Hannah Ward juggles intense rehearsals, dazzling performances and complicated backstage relationships. Up until now, Hannah has happily devoted her entire life to ballet.

But when she meets a handsome musician named Jacob, Hannah's universe begins to change, and she must decide if she wants to compete against the other "bunheads" in the company for a star soloist spot or strike out on her own in the real world. Does she dare give up the gilded confines of the ballet for the freedoms of everyday life?

First off, Sophie Flack is a darling and absolutely adorable. I was lucky enough to snag a signed copy of this novel – complete with a cute drawing of toe shoes - at BEA and I started to read it almost right away (I needed a book to read at lunch and this was my choice).

I’ve been fascinated with the world of ballet and the whole ballet life in New York City never since I watched the movie Center Stage. Watching Black Swan just upped my curiosity and by reading this novel I feel as though I’ve come away with a better understanding of the ballet world and what it means to be a part of it. Flack – being an ex-professional ballet dancer for the New York City Ballet – really was able to give this amazing insight into the whole culture and world of the dancers right down to the conflicting emotions that can be felt over weight or talent or promotions. I really felt as though I was there and witnessing everything as it happened; her writing was so descriptive and detailed.

In short, this was a fantastic debut and by far the best reading experience I’ve ever had about something like this. If this isn’t on your 2011 watch list, it should be. Whether you’re a dancer or just someone who’s interested in dance, this is the novel for you. I give it an 8/10.


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