4.5 stars (Bumping it up because of the book's importance.)

I both listened to and read along to the narration. When my daughter was young, Misty Copeland was one of her favorite ballet dancers, and she even had a chance to meet her in person. Like most people, we believed that Misty Copeland was the first black woman to knock down walls and make it as a prima ballerina. This book tells a different story, but without taking away from all that Misty Copeland has accomplished. In fact, at the end, these five ballerinas are brought together at an event with Copeland that has them all in tears of gratitude.

This story tells us partly about Arthur Mitchell, the man who founded the Dance Theatre of Harlem (something I had never heard of before), but the focus is on the ballerinas Lydia Albarca, Gayle McKinney-Griffith, Shelia Rohan, Marcia Sells and Karlya Shelton, which is an important distinction. While there was genuine love between Mitchell and the dancers, he had demons of his own, which often led to difficult relationships. The Dance Theatre of Harlem was his one true love, and that's something that was evident from the stories these women now tell. While these five women are not the only incredible dancers that came from Dance Theatre, they were groundbreaking ballerinas who were there at the start, the ones who danced internationally, who danced for the queen and the president, and who later formed the 152nd Street Black Ballet Legacy Council to bring back these stories and preserve them for later generations. The first three women listed above were founding members and Marcia Sells and Karlya Shelton came in the next generation. They came from different backgrounds and different parts of the country, but what they had in common was a strong desire to dance ballet regardless of what society was telling them, that black people could not dance ballet.

Besides telling their stories, they talk about their fellow dancers, including the danseurs, the men who kept them safe on the stage. While there were some issues with jealousy, for the most part, these women talked about how they supported each other over the years, because if they didn't, who would? Some of these women hadn't talked for years, so the frank conversations they had about what they each thought back then was so eye-opening for them and it was also healing. Lydia was Mitchell's muse, but never his prima, because his vision of his company was that there not be primas--they were all dancers on equal footing. Of course, that's not really what happened--he had his favorites, and he took things personally if they didn't fit his mold. As mentioned before, his company was his real love and he protected it to the point of tunnel vision, not letting others more skilled in various aspects of running a company take charge. This was particularly interesting because these women got together decades after that time and were able to see through the lens of history to better understand what it was they had all gone through.

They also talk about the loss of many of their danseurs to the AIDS epidemic and the government's failure to address it quickly enough, as it first showed up among the gay population, and then was much more prevalent in the African American population. Throughout they talk about how the only reason Lydia's grandchildren knew she was such a prominent dancer was because her family had told her over the years. Yet, they knew very little about her life during that time because she didn't talk about it. But they talk about how this history was basically hidden away and forgotten, and even Misty Copeland had never heard of these black ballerinas who danced all over the world, dancing for prominent figures. This is part of what this council wants to change, both through this book and through their organization.

Overall, I found this book compelling, fascinating, angering, and inspiring. I've seen videos of these women talking now (you can check out some interviews, zoom calls, etc., on their website) and they are impressive. I hope their story will inspire generations of young girls to reach for their dreams of dancing.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

"A proper teaching of history seems to be a problem in this country. There's a stubbornness there. Or an unwillingness. There's been so much African American history that's been denied its proper place in the annals of our country. It's really important that while we have the opportunity and a platform, we set the record straight. There have been Black ballerinas for a long time, and the fact of that takes away from no one." -Karlya Shelton

I think that says it all.

A beautiful, necessary book that's worth your time.

Whatever interesting book about this 5.Young black Cancers who are valerinas. You're all danced for the theater of harlem. . There was a young man who started the company He was very strict With the dancers. They all came from different backgrounds.And they all wanted to dance but the white companies would not Let them dance.. The principal dancer's name was LYDI. A baby ARC She has light Skin and she grease covers of black magazines. She also danced with bob F u s on broadway. That was really interesting.How these different women came from different backgrounds and they all have overcome The difficult obscures. They traveled all over the world. I like when they decided to take their dance Tights and Make them brown to match their skin. Was really interesting, how they had overcome a lot Prejudiced against them.. I'm They have to try so hard because they had to raise money.Especially could because nobody was helping them so they have to get grant As they grew it was really interesting to see how things could change in the world. These women were the forefront to be dancers.
In a white world. I learned a lot about these women. They came from all different backgrounds. Some came from Cleveland some came from Denver, Colorado. I liked how the book was designed as well. Because everybody had IA say in it with their own chapter. So you could see how they interact with this Story. It was very hard when they went down South because they do not like black people.So the whites have problems going to see them. I think the world has changed now. And this is a really positive view to show how people can overcome obstacles when things are thrown in their way.

The Swans of Harlem tells the little known story off five black ballerinas during the late 60s and 70s. This was still a time where even the thought of a professional black ballet dancer was unheard of. Each one has a different dream - buying a house for their parents, living in NYC as prima ballerinas, and maintaining the grit of living through racism.

Was overall a good book and touched on a subject I have never heard of.

I do not know much about ballet in general and would have said Misty Copeland was the first known black ballerina. How wrong I would be. The history of the Dance Theatre of Harlem and the founding ballerinas is important for so many to see the determination of young black girls striving to fulfill their dreams. Making their dreams a reality and forming a life long sisterhood under the tutelage of Arthur Mitchell is art history that needed to be told. Thank you to the author and The Swans for sharing their story. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this fascinating book.

For me this was a beautifully written introduction to the Swans of Harlem (Lydia Abarca, Gayle McKinney-Griffith, Sheila Rohan, Marcia Sells, and Karlya Shelton) and the creation of the Dance Theatre of Harlem founded by Arthur Mitchell.

Like many others, I considered Misty Copeland to be the first black ballerina, but these women were breaking barriers and forging paths even before Copeland was born! It’s sad how there identities and accomplishments have been buried and almost forgotten. In this book, we get first hand accounts from these incredible women.

This is an important of history that everyone should familiarize themselves with. This book is definitely worth reading.

This was such a poignant book. I had, of course, heard of The Dance Theatre of Harlem, but wasn't aware of its storied history, as well as its ground-breaking rearing of such important women in the dance world. These were stories that needed to be told, and Ms. Valby did so with such grace, honesty, and care. These women are only now realizing the paths they have forged for other black ballerinas. They have moved on from dance to do other things, but remain connected to one another and the dance world. This book ensure their contributions will not be forgotten.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for an ARC of this book.

“The Swans of Harlem” is a profound and compelling narrative that offers an illuminating glimpse into the often overlooked history of the first Black ballerinas. As someone who grew up as a ballerina, I found this book to be an essential read, offering both heartbreaking and inspiring insights into the lives of these pioneering dancers.

The book meticulously chronicles the challenges and triumphs of Black ballerinas who, despite their exceptional talent and dedication, were frequently denied opportunities solely because of their skin color. Through personal stories and historical context, “The Swans of Harlem” sheds light on the systemic racism that plagued the ballet community, highlighting how these artists fought against the odds to pursue their passion and pave the way for future generations.

One of the most impactful aspects of the book is its exploration of the AIDS pandemic and its impact on the ballet world. The narrative does not shy away from the harsh realities faced by the community during this time, providing a raw and honest depiction of the fear, stigma, and loss experienced by many. This adds another layer of depth to the book, demonstrating the resilience and strength of these dancers in the face of multiple adversities.

“The Swans of Harlem” is more than just a history lesson; it is a tribute to the courage and perseverance of the first Black ballerinas. Their stories are not only a vital part of ballet history but also a reminder of the ongoing struggles for equality and recognition in the arts. This book is a must-read for everyone, offering invaluable lessons on resilience, artistry, and the unyielding spirit of those who dance against the currents of prejudice and discrimination.

The Swans of Harlem, detailing a group of five pioneering black ballerinas is as much about the wiped away past of those who brought this style to a wider audience, as it as about community and sisterhood. While initially I had some trouble getting into the story and keeping everyone straight, this is an important read about the ways in which we completely erased these women from the history of ballet. I had a newfound respect for ballet after reading this.

To be honest, I didn’t think I was going to enjoy this book. I was right. I didn’t like it, I LOVED it! I knew nothing about the ballet world or the history of black people in it. I found myself searching for videos of the women in the book and videos of the performances. It really is a marvel to see these performances. History has forgotten the contribution of the Dance Theater of Harlem. Thank you to Netgalley, Pantheon and Karen Valby for this eye-opening book.

What an amazing book!! WOWSERS!!

What a horrible stain on our history that these amazing women, and all they accomplished and all of their hard work had [until recently] just been regulated to the back of the closet [so to speak] and essentially forgotten by everyone EXCEPT the women themselves. Bravo to the author for writing these amazing women's stories and opening their lives and accomplishments to new generations. Also, kudos to these women for being willing to revisit a time in their lives that was both exhilarating and often so taxing and heartbreaking, all so girls of color, all over the world, can see that their dream is completely possible.

Filled with history, personal stories, and all the joys *AND* perils of ballet [even more so due to their skin color], this was such a great story from page one, and I am so very glad I read this!!

Thank you to NetGalley, Karen Valby, and Knopf, Pantheon, Vintage, and Anchor for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book is both profoundly depressing and a joyful celebration of the lives of these women who broke trail for young black dancers. The prima ballerinas of the Dance Theatre of Harlem found lives performing the art they loved, but at an unbelievably high cost. Their stories are inspirational and uplifting, and they deserve all honors for their sacrifices to the art of ballet.

As McKinney-Griffith says, "A proper teaching of history seems to be a problem in this country. There’s a stubbornness there. Or an unwillingness." She is talking about black dancers, but she speaks a larger truth about black history, and the history of other marginalized people.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This was a book I would not have probably picked up on my own, but I was offered it as an ARC.
I was absorbed into this story, the ballet, the dancers & all they had to do to be recognized as professional ballet dancers regardless of the color of their skin.

We follow the lives of the main 5 female dancers who danced with the Dance Theater of Harlem under the direction of Arthur Mitchell. He is also a very huge part of this story.

These dancers, there are many along the way, were dancing long before Misty Copeland was even born. Dancing across the country & around the world- a black dance company with dancers who danced as children & teens in other dance companies but we never given the opportunity to be a fully accepted dancer. This is where Arthur Mitchell sees a need & starts the Harlem dance company.

I will not do this story justice. It was beautiful, sad, infuriating & I learned so much.

While I was reading, one of the main 5 women passed away, I gasped when I read the news. These were such strong & determined women. It was a slow read, but not in a negative way- there was a lot to take in, some interesting history & sad times also.

Amazing amount of research went in to the writing of this book- great job Karen Valby

Wow... what an incredible story about some of the unsung pioneers of dance. As a former recreational ballet dancer I have followed the rise of Misty Copeland, Michaela DePrince, and other dancers of color within the professional space. I knew loosely of other dancers who broke the color barriers years ago but was unaware of the details and exactly how influential these early dancers were. This story was an insightful tale of the early beginnings of the Dance Theater of Harlem, its founder Arthur Mitchell, and his early Primas.

Hearing the stories of the five women who the book focuses on truly shows how many barriers they have to overcome to even be offered the opportunity to perform on a stage. From the company's humble beginnings in a run down NYC building to touring Europe and performing for socialites and political figures, Arthur Mitchell was fully dedicated to making sure that his dancers were offered opportunities to prove that black dancers could perform classical and contemporary repertoire to the highest levels. Valby's narrative does not gloss over the dark sides of the professional dance world and social climate- from eating disorders and alcoholism, to the AIDs crisis and colorism. Mitchell was a dedicated director but a tough one and did not shy away from reprimanding his dancers, favoritism, and snubbing those who he felt went against him.

Overall, this book brings to the spotlight a critical piece of history that has been hidden for too long. The efforts of the "Swans" to ensure that their legacy is not forgotten is done justice in Valby's work and I hope that their work will continue to be discussed as a major part of the history of ballet.

A beautiful telling of the history of five Black ballerinas at the Dance Theatre of Harlem beginning in the 1970s.

The Dance Theatre of Harlem (DTH) was founded by Arthur Mitchell after growing tired of hearing Black dancers didn’t belong in ballet, he created his own company.

Following the lives of five DTH ballerinas, three founding members and two first generation, this book seamlessly weaves the lives of the women against the sociopolitical climate of the time they were living and dancing through.

No prior ballet knowledge is needed to fall in love with these women and their journeys. Just an overall appreciation for history making, ceiling shattering, badass women.

The five women created the 152nd Street Black Ballet Legacy Council to make sure their legacy as well as Black ballerinas everywhere is not erased.

Valby did such a great job honoring the stories of these women and DTH in general. You can feel the shared love for dance through the words and the love and respect they all have for each other.

Thanks to #netgalley, the publisher and author for this e-arc!

I know very little about ballet, I've just not had any exposure to it.

The Swans of Harlem brought to my attention the remarkable women who formed the core of the Dance Theatre of Harlem. It is maddening that talent was constrained by prejudice.

It was indeed my pleasure to read the histories of these incredible ladies. It is long past time for their stories to be told.

Many thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this arc, and to the author for writing this! Following my reading of this arc I watched several hours of DTH on YouTube. Thank you. Thank you.

I've only known Misty Copeland to be the first black ballerina, so to my surprise that there were others! Of course there were! Reading is so fundamental and that's why I love books! Got learn about five other beautiful ladies that were groundbreaking in this art form! Highly recommend!

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.

A beautiful tribute to a forgotten (and ignored) part of Black History. Karen Valby an excellent job with her research and sensitivity about five ballerinas who were nurtured, thrived, and then dismissed by the kind of dancing they loved so much. It was an honor to read this book. I hope others will too.

Fascinating look into the squashing of Black history in dance to frame a narrative of a future dancer even to the point that the future dancer had no idea these strong, beautiful forces of nature even existed after researching and writing a book about the history of Black ballerinas!

If you love Ballet then this is a book you need to read for th history of the the Black American ballet dancers. The author gives us insight into the first group of Black American ballet dancers and all they experienced. Very interesting history. Glad I read it. Thanks for the advanced copy