Robert Battle with My Story, My Dance author Lesa Cline-Ransome and illustrator James E. Ransome Photo

From: Photo Flash: First Look at MY STORY, MY DANCE: Robert Battle's Journey to Alvin Ailey Book Launch

The launch of MY STORY, MY DANCE: Robert Battle's Journey to Alvin Ailey, the moving children's picture book from Simon & Schuster, was celebrated at The Ailey Studios on October 29th through reading, dancing and discussion.  Artistic Director Robert Battle was joined by author and illustrator couple Lesa Cline-Ransomeand James E. Ransome, who spoke about their personal connection to Ailey and their special roles in creating this heart-warming picture book biography.  Mr. Battle recounted how seeing Revelations for the first time as a boy in Miami set him on a path to achieve his goals.  "Having experienced first-hand the transformative power of the Ailey legacy, I'm honored by the creation of this book based upon my life," stated Battle, "It's so meaningful to know that this moving story will inspire the next generation of students to dream big and reach high."  Students from The Ailey School listened intently when Mr. Battle read from the book and beamed as they brought to life an excerpt from Alvin Ailey's masterpiece.  The students asked questions and soaked up Mr. Battle's wise and witty advice to stay focused, keep dreaming and dancing diligently, and to remember that if a boy with leg braces can grow up to be a dancer and choreographer, then they can accomplish anything.  Check out the photos of the book launch below!