TITLE: Tiny Pretty Things
AUTHORS: Sona Charaipotra and Dhonielle Clayton
PUBLISHER: Harper Teen
PUBLISHED DATE: May 26, 2015
ISBN: 978-0062342393
PAGES: 448
I really enjoyed this book...far more than I thought I would. All of the characters were richly portrayed, I was completely engrossed in the story from beginning to end, I hated and loved the characters - except Gigi....who was a bit too perfect - perhaps her fault was that she was too perfect and naive...whatever the case...I am completely in love with this story.
Gigi, June, and Bette are three rivals at a prestigious ballet company in New York. Gigi is the newcomer from California who's bumped Bette - the classic ballerina from her pedestal. June is the eternal understudy, who's eating disorder is the only thing she can control. Diversity abounds in this book...Gigi is African American, June is Korean, and Bette is a white American. The story is written in alternating voice. Each voice is distinct, strong, and heartbreaking. I didn't want this book to end. Gigi arrives to New York from California, and she tries so hard to fit in. She has no friends and family around, and she is desperately homesick. She's been selected as the prima ballerina of the company - and will perform Giselle (it helps that her name is actually Giselle...) as the principal dancer in the Sugar Plum Fairy. Not only does Gigi secure Bette's former position, she also secures the heart of Bette's boyfriend, Alec. Bette - famous for getting what she wants, being the classic "face" of ballet with her blonde hair and blue eyes, and driving the last prima ballerina to the mental institution - is not taking this lightly. June's eating disorder, not knowing who her father is, and inability to make an impression in the company push her to the brink... Both June and Bette both make Gigi's experience in the company a living hell....I would love to tell you more - but seriously...you'll have to read the book to find out!
Recommendation: Read it!
Audience: Young Adults