This vibrant and energetic photographic essay showcases the life of seventh grader Iman Bright, a dancer at the prestigious Ailey School in New York City. Unlike other non-fiction titles about young dancers, Iman’s story revels in all aspects of her life, rather than focusing on a performance. Iman, a lithe and lovely African American preteen, shares the joy she experiences while dancing and how it’s “wonderful to have another way to express yourself besides words.” Iman tells about her challenging training at dance school, chats about her friends at regular school, and explains how her schedule also includes room for violin lessons and hanging out at the pool. Clear journalistic style photos chronicle Iman’s fluid and engaging diary of her life as a dancer. (Ages 9–12)

Meet Iman Bright, a thirteen-year-old student at the prestigious Ailey School in New York City. Iman is passionate about dance, but she also enjoys drawing, playing music, and of course, hanging out with her friends. Follow Iman as she warms up at the barre, practices violin, and gets ready for a performance with her fellow students.

In descriptive words and striking photographs, this informative picture book provides fascinating insight into the world of dance through the voice of one very talented young performer.