Welcome to Litsy!

Patty Gilbert, a relatively new girl to #SweetValley, loves ballet dancing more than anything. She even ignored Kerry Glenn‘s friendly overtures because Kerry is her only real competition in their advanced class. But when Mme Baril notices something different about Patty, she is scared to go to the doctor & even more scared after her diagnosis that may mean the end of her dancing days! Meanwhile, Jessica schemes to get their class on television!

Jackie Kennedy with Rudolf Nureyev

There are articles today - decades after their deaths that Jackie and Rudolf had an affair. These are just rumors. We know that he did perform at the White House and knew both Jack and Jackie, and kept a long friendship with Jackie for years.

McCanns book does not even hint at an affair, only a passing friendship filled with adoration on both sides.
I personally find the affair hard to believe.

Rudolf Nureyev went from a penniless Russian teen, escaping from 1960s Russia to a world famous millionaire ballet dancer who partied with the likes of John Harrison, Yoko Ono, Andy Warhol, and a very close friend with Jackie Kennedy later Onassis.
He died in 1993 from AIDS leaving millions to different ballet schools
McCanns portrayal of him is artistic - he is simultaneously overly dramatic, short-tempered, and extremely generous.

"Whatever loneliness we have had in this world will only make sense when we are no longer lonely"
Amazing story. I don't know anything about ballet but was fascinated with this fictionalized account of Rudolf (Rudik) Nureyev. From Russian peasant to world renowned ballet dancer Rudik is masterfully brought back to life through this book. McCanns writing is phenomenal & the celebrity cameos from Jackie O to Andy Warhol made it a pleasure to read.

I always enjoy books about acceptance and this book was no exception. I liked the silliness of the book and think kids would find it humerus.
Published 2012
Speculative fiction

Big by Vashti Harrison features enchanting illustrations with vibrant colors and whimsical lines, drawing readers into a warm, imaginative world. The story promotes self-acceptance and celebrates individuality, encouraging children to embrace their unique qualities. With its exceptional artistry and meaningful message, Big won the the Caldecott Award in 2024, making it a valuable addition to any child‘s library.

McCann blows me away with his writing. I am a little over a third in and just marveling at his style. Each section is often from an alternating or new POV, there is no formal introduction to whose POV it is, but you are clued in within the first 2 lines. Along with this often the style of writing is different such as from the shoemaker whose sections have no periods and no capitalization at the beginning of the paragraph. Loving this read.