For the months of April and May, The Think & Grow Chick bookclub will read Life in Motion: An Unlikely Ballerina by Misty Copeland.

I've loved Misty Copeland the day my mom told me about her when I began my own quest to learn ballet at age 12. Heralding her in the same way I did Dominique Dawes and Venus and Serena Williams as a little girl, Misty Copeland served as a reminder to my 12 year old self that there was nothing "deficient" about being a black girl. I could succeed in any arena as long I was willing to work hard.

While my ballet classes were short lived, the inspiration I gained from Misty Copeland continues. Making history in 2007 by becoming the third African American female soloist and first in two decades, at American Ballet Theatre, Misty speaks openly about her struggles as an black classical ballet dancer in a primarily white field.

Here's a short clip where Misty explains what it means to be a black woman in classical ballet:

Normally on the bookclub I choose more "technical" or "how-to" books centered on self-improvement, but I think Misty's memoir is an important read because it shares her struggles and how she overcame adversity to reach success. Sometimes you learn more from someone's story than you do from "step by step" instructions. It is my hope that her story inspires you (and me!) to maximize your potential in spite of whatever challenges you face.If you are interested in reading this book with me, visit my bookclub page to learn how to join.

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Discussion:

Do you follow Misty Copeland? Have you experienced being the only black woman in a predominately white field? What are your thoughts on overcoming challenges to reach success?

(Photo #1 via, #2 via)