Kimi the Ballerina

By Korey Watari

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.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1662509081
• ISBN13: 9781662509087
• Release Date: May 2026
• Publisher: Two Lions
• Length: 40 Pages
• Age Range: 3 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3