Beyond the Dance: A Ballerina's Life cover

Beyond the Dance: A Ballerina's Life

Author: Goh, Chan Hon

Reading Metrics

Grade Level Middle Grades (MG 4-8)
Book Level 7.5
Points 6.0
Fiction/Nonfiction Nonfiction
Word Count 33693
Points per Word 0.000178
Page Count 152
Points per Page 0.039474

Description

The book is an autobiography of Chinese ballerina Chan Hon Goh, who was born in Beijing to dancer parents. It describes her family's flight from Communist Beijing to Canada to escape an oppressive regime that had thwarted her father's career. The narrative follows her rigorous training and her struggle to achieve acceptance as a professional dancer. The book includes photographs and is coauthored by Cary Fagan.

Quick Summary

This true story reads like a powerful novel, following a young dancer who escapes political turmoil in Beijing and fights to prove herself in the competitive world of professional ballet. Kids will root for her determination as she trains relentlessly, faces cultural challenges, and earns her place on stage through sheer grit. If your kid loves "Refugee" by Alan Gratz, they'll devour this real-life tale of courage and dreams. Perfect for ages 9 to 13 in grades 4 through 8.