Book cover of She Persisted: Maria Tallchief

She Persisted: Maria Tallchief

ISBN

9780593115800

Publisher & Publication Year

Philomel, 2021

Publisher's Book Page

Author

Christine Day (Upper Skagit)

Author's Website 

Illustrator

Alexandra Boiger and Gillian Flint

Synopsis

Summary

This chapter book biography follows the amazing life of ballerina Maria Tallchief, and how she persisted to achieve her dreams. Maria loved to dance, but was told that she might need to change her Osage name to one that sounded more Russian to make it as a professional ballerina. Instead, she refused, and worked hard at dancing her best, eventually becoming America’s first prima ballerina. Many famous American ballets were created for Maria!

Notable Achievements

Reviews

Publishers Weekly: "[A] rich, clear picture of how one iconic Native dancer persisted."

Kirkus Reviews: "Inspiringly shows how Maria Tallchief persisted and made her dreams come true."

School Library Journal: "Highlights the fact that Tallchief never forgot her Osage heritage... Recommended for all library collections."

Educator Guide

Link to Guide

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