Bunheads by Sophie Flack

As a dancer with the ultra-prestigious Manhattan Ballet Company, nineteen-year-old Hannah Ward juggles intense rehearsals, dazzling performances and complicated backstage relationships. Up until now, Hannah has happily devoted her entire life to ballet.

But when she meets a handsome musician named Jacob, Hannah's universe begins to change, and she must decide if she wants to compete against the other "bunheads" in the company for a star soloist spot or strike out on her own in the real world. Does she dare give up the gilded confines of the ballet for the freedoms of everyday life?

A contemporary YA set in the world of classical ballet. You know it made me curious. This book was so rich in this world that you know that someone had the inside scoop of this life. In seeing who the author was and what she had done, you know everything was accurate. You begin to wonder where did real life end and the fiction begin? In other words, I'm curious as to what part was real life and was this a fictional version of the author's own struggle for a much fuller life than what a singular obsession could give.

Yes, you are easily swept away with the gritty reality of what being a bunhead entails. However, I do have a criticism. It was told in a way where you are held at arms length from the main character, Hannah. You could connect with the character somewhat, but there was just enough distance that kept it safe. I think if the character opened up a little more to her audience, this book could be perfection. However, I will say too, that the world this book inhabited did make up for much of this lack. You really get a feel for the torment these dancers put themselves through for the illusion that is perfection.

I give this book 3 stars. I really did enjoy the world of the bunhead. I would recommend this book to any girl who ever dreamed of being a ballerina. Yes, I was one of them. :)

 I was given this book by the publisher and no compensation for my review was given.