Ballerina Misty Copeland Unveils Her Top Summer Reading List
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Renowned ballerina and accomplished author Misty Copeland recently shared her selection of summer reads, offering readers a glimpse into her literary preferences. Known for her love of books, Copeland sat down with Page Six to reveal her top six choices for the upcoming season. With a mix of self-improvement nonfiction, poignant literary fiction, and insightful biographies, her list features a diverse range of genres that reflect her own journey and inspire personal growth. Copeland expressed, “I’ve always turned to books for reflection, escape, and growth. Whether it’s a story that mirrors my own journey or one that opens a window into an entirely different world, reading keeps me grounded and inspired, fuels my creativity, challenges my perspective, and gives me space to dream.”
Copeland’s summer reading lineup includes a selection of books that have touched her heart and mind in various ways. Among her recommendations is ‘The Creative Habit’ by Twyla Tharp, a book filled with exercises aimed at fostering lasting creativity through discipline and consistency. Copeland noted that the values highlighted in the book resonate with her approach to her craft, emphasizing the importance of showing up with dedication and passion. Another title on her list is ‘Beautiful Ruins’ by Jess Walter, a captivating novel that merges elements of literary fiction, historical fiction, and romance. Copeland shared that she was completely engrossed in the story, finding it intimately compelling.
One of Copeland’s personal favourites is ‘Dancing on My Grave’ by Gelsey Kirkland, a memoir that delves into the high-pressure world of dance and its consequences. Kirkland, a trailblazing ballerina whom Copeland admired growing up, provided a unique perspective on the ballet world, leaving a lasting impact on Copeland. Another standout recommendation is ‘Homegoing’ by Yaa Gyasi, a novel that follows the lives of two sisters and their descendants through significant moments in American history. Copeland praised the book for its beautiful prose and its exploration of slavery’s legacy, highlighting how it resonated with her emotionally and intellectually.
Reflecting on her journey towards personal growth and mindfulness, Copeland also included ‘The Power of Now’ by Eckhart Tolle in her summer reads list. This spiritual guide, which Copeland described as instrumental in her early career, focuses on living in the present moment and has helped her stay grounded and aligned in both her professional and personal life. Lastly, Copeland recommended her own book, ‘Letters to Misty’, which was recently published. Describing it as a deeply personal project, she expressed that the book is a collection of uplifting letters intended to inspire children and remind them that they are valued and never alone.
As readers embark on their summer reading adventures, Misty Copeland’s curated list promises a blend of insightful narratives, thought-provoking themes, and heartfelt storytelling. With each book offering a unique perspective and resonating with Copeland at a personal level, her recommendations serve as a testament to the transformative power of literature in fostering growth, empathy, and reflection.
In a world filled with uncertainty, taking solace in the pages of a good book can provide comfort and inspiration. Misty Copeland’s diverse and engaging summer reading list is a testament to the magic of storytelling and its ability to transport us to different worlds, challenge our perspectives, and ignite our imaginations. So, as the sun shines brightly and the days grow longer, let these literary works accompany you on your journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.