When It All Syncs Up by Maya Ameyaw

Ballet is Aisha's life. So when she's denied yet another lead at her elite academy because she doesn't "look" the part, she knows something has to change the constant discrimination is harming her mental health. Switching to her best friend Neil's art school seems like the perfect plan at first.

But she soon discovers racism and bullying are entrenched in the ballet program here, too, and there's a new, troubling distance between her and Neil. And as past traumas surface, pressure from friends and family, a new romance, and questions about her dance career threaten to overwhelm her. There's no choreography to follow for high school or for healing. Aisha will have to find the strength within herself and place her trust in othersto make her next move.(From Annick Press)

When It All Syncs Upis for ages 14and up.

Maya Ameyaw is a Toronto writer and arts instructor.