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West Branch Nonfiction Book Discussion

Swan Dive by Georgina Pazcoguin

West Branch's monthly nonfiction book discussion group. June: Swan Dive : the making of a rogue ballerina by Georgina Pazcoguin.

Join us for West Branch's monthly non-fiction book discussion group. We read a variety of contemporary non-fiction and meet once a month for a lively discussion. Contact discussion leader Janet Stephens at 630-264-3626 for a copy of the book or the list of current chosen titles.

Join us virtually through Zoom or register for in-person, as seating is limited. Contact discussion facilitator Janet Stephens at jstephens@aurorapubliclibrary.org for more information or to receive a Zoom link to join us virtually.

June: Swan Dive : the making of a rogue ballerina by Georgina Pazcoguin

Pazcoguin made history as the first female Asian American soloist at the New York City Ballet. Her absolute joy in dancing shines through in this memoir of rising through the ranks. But success came with psychological costs in a discipline where “there is no separation between our bodies and our art form.” Her talent acknowledged, she felt pressure to “dim her light” and to fit in to the point of changing her body. Stereotyping limited her choice of roles. Looking back, the dancer recognizes the “shame and brokenness” imposed on her through intimidation and bias. Swan Dive recounts its author's emotional tug-of-war between professional growth and staying true to herself. Pazcoguin’s irreverent, conversational writing is appealing: funny, poignant, and sometimes understandably angry. Word pictures, such as anxiety “whir[ring] inside of me constantly, not unlike a high-powered blender,” evoke her personality. Although this story takes place within an elite ballet company, it speaks to a broad audience. Who doesn’t yearn for the ”complete and utter magic” she feels “when all the bullshit is swept aside”?

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