About this item
A lyrical picture book biography of Janet Collins, the first African American principal dancer at the Metropolitan Opera House. Janet Collins wanted to be a ballerina in the 1930s and 40s, a time when racial segregation was widespread in the United States. Janet pursued dance with a passion, despite being rejected from discriminatory dance schools. When she was accepted into the Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo as a teenager on the condition that she paint her skin white for performances, Janet refused. She continued to go after her dreams, never compromising her values along the way. From her early childhood lessons to the height of her success as the first African American prima ballerina in the Metropolitan Opera, this is the story of a remarkable pioneer.
About the Author
Michelle Meadows is the author of many acclaimed books for children. Connection, compassion, and family are common themes in her work. Michelle studied journalism and literature at Syracuse University. Michelle is represented by literary agent Rosemary Stimola of the Stimola Literary Studio. She grew up in Washington, D.C. and now lives near the beach in Delaware with her husband.
