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Kimi the BALLerina by Korey Watari (Author), Mike Wu (Illustrator)

 




Join Kimi as she pirouettes onto the basketball court in this relatable story inspired by author Korey Watari’s experiences and illustrated by her husband, Mike Wu, former Pixar artist and creator of the Ellie series.

Kimi just wants to focus on ballet, but she knows her dad really wants her to join the basketball team. Trying new things makes Kimi feel small, quiet, and uneasy. So her dad makes her a deal: If she gives basketball a try, he might just trade his sneakers for ballet slippers.

Kimi gives it a shot. At first it seems like all she is doing is fumbling, tumbling, and missing baskets. But her dad only encourages her more. Then he shares a story about her grandfather’s famous moves on a Japanese American basketball team and why the sport is so special to their family. It’s just the motivation that Kimi needs.

And what happens when Kimi takes some of her ballet skills over to basketball? Find out in this heartfelt story that’s perfect for dancers and sports lovers alike, or anyone who’s had to try something new.




Publication Date: 7th April 2026


My Review:

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Four Point Five Stars

Beautiful Story of Kimi who wanted nothing more than to learn ballet. But her father wanted her to learn basketball. Kimi gives it a try and finds that she is not good at it at all. Then she talks with her father who explains why basketball is so important to him. Then Kimi tries something different and learns how similar basketball and ballet really is. She begins to enjoy both basketball and ballet.

Beautiful illustrations and also teaches kids about the formation of the Japanese American League and also a lovely story that brought a smile to my face. An enjoyable book for both adults and older children.

Thank you for the eARC Netgalley.
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