Sylvia wants to be a ballerina like the ones she sees on TV.

She longs to leap, and twirl, and do plies, ’til she can dance in real ballets.

But as an African-American girl in 1950s America, Sylvia must reach her goal against all odds.

This beautiful first-ever biography of Sylvia Townsend tells the story of how one determined girl made her dreams come true by discovering the magic of the bookmobile, keeping the beat in her feet, and staying on her tippy toes…always ready for lift off.

“Lyon and LaFaye have co-authored a standout text that centers action in this triumphant story.” (Kirkus Reviews)