The Bookish Ashley

Tiny Pretty Things by Sona Charaipotra and Dhonielle Clayton is a captivating blend of ballet, drama, and suspense that will have you pirouetting through its pages. Set in an elite Manhattan ballet school, this novel delivers a tantalizing mix of Black Swan and Pretty Little Liars, promising a thrilling ride from the first plié to the final bow.

The story revolves around three top students, each with their own secrets and aspirations. Gigi, the free-spirited newcomer, brings an air of unpredictability to the narrative, her passion for dance carrying an ominous price. Bette, the privileged New Yorker, wrestles with the burden of her sister’s fame and discovers a dangerous side within herself. Meanwhile, June, the perfectionist, faces immense pressure from her overbearing mother, and her dreams of dancing hang in the balance.

What sets this novel apart is its diverse cast of characters. The authors masterfully weave cultural and racial diversity into the narrative, providing much-needed representation in the world of ballet. The characters are well-developed, flawed, and utterly compelling. You’ll find yourself both empathizing with and despising their actions as they navigate the treacherous waters of ambition and rivalry.

Charaipotra and Clayton’s writing is vivid and descriptive, immersing readers into the intense world of ballet. The competitive atmosphere, the physically demanding nature of the art, and the complex relationships between the characters are all portrayed with depth and authenticity. The authors understand the cutthroat world they’ve crafted, and they don’t shy away from the darker aspects of it.

The story’s pacing keeps the reader engaged, with unexpected twists and turns that mirror the unpredictable nature of a dancer’s life. The tension escalates as friendships turn into rivalries, and trust becomes a rare commodity. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, and you won’t want to step off.

However, while Tiny Pretty Things is undoubtedly a page-turner, it occasionally treads the line between drama and melodrama, and some plot points may stretch credulity. Nevertheless, the overall narrative and character development more than make up for these minor quibbles.

In conclusion, Tiny Pretty Things is a gripping and refreshing addition to the young adult genre, offering a much-needed dose of diversity and a backstage pass to the cutthroat world of ballet. If you’re a fan of drama-packed stories with a dark edge, this book is a must-read. And don’t forget to keep an eye out for the thrilling sequel, Shiny Broken Pieces, because the gossip, lies, and scandal are far from over.

Rating: 4/5 stars