Picture Book Review: Ballet Brown by Bellen Woodard
Ballet Brown is a beautifully written and inspiring picture book that’s all about speaking up, celebrating inclusion, and making space for everyone in the world of dance. Written by Bellen Woodard, who is the same young activist behind the More Than Peach project and book, this story is both empowering and relatable for kids and adults alike. Read on for a review of the picture book Ballet Brown by Bellen Woodard and illustrated by Fanny Liem.
Publisher provided a ARC for review, however all thoughts and opinions our own. This post contains affiliate links. We earn a small commission for items purchased.
Bellen loves ballet, but she starts to notice something that doesn’t sit right: ballet gear is almost always “ballet pink,” a shade that doesn’t reflect everyone’s skin color. The story follows her journey as she questions the norms of traditional ballet schools. Bellen feels frustrated by her studio’s unwillingness to embrace change, and eventually she takes matters into her own hands. Instead of giving up, she finds an inclusive ballet studio and introduces ballet brown, which turns out to be a powerful idea that makes room for all the “many beautiful colors of dance.”
Ballet Brown is sweetly illustrated by Fanny Liem, and the artwork does a great job reflecting Bellen’s emotions, especially her frustration when trying to find tights that actually match her skin tone. The illustrations also show the joy she feels when she finds a dance studio that’s more open-minded. Little things, like kids being allowed to wear different hairstyles or choose gear that feels right to them make a big difference in helping the young ballet students feel like they belong.
At the back of this picture book, there’s two short notes explaining why traditional ballet stuck with pink tights and shoes in the first place, which helps give context to readers who may be new to the conversation.
Ballet Brown is more than just a picture book about dance. It’s more of a book about confidence, change, and making the world more inclusive, one small but meaningful step at a time. Highly recommend this one for classrooms, dance lovers, and any kid dealing with frustrations surrounding traditions.
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