The narrative of Firebird is a poetic dialogue between a young ballet student and her mentor, exploring themes of self-confidence, perseverance, and the transformative power of dance.

"Firebird" has received acclaim for its positive message and representation, making it a significant contribution to children's literature and an inspirational tool for young dancers worldwide.

[2] Copeland's motivation for writing "Firebird" stemmed from her own experiences in the predominantly white ballet world, where she often felt like an outsider due to her race and body type.

This reflection motivated her to create "Firebird" for children who dream of gracing the stage, intending to "expand the idea of beauty and art.

"[4] In collaboration with Christopher Myers, an award-winning illustrator, "Firebird" aims to inspire and empower young readers by showing them that success and excellence in ballet (or any field) are attainable regardless of their background or the challenges they may face.

Misty Copeland instills a sense of hope and determination in young readers, encouraging them to dream big and work hard to achieve their goals.

This theme is particularly impactful considering Copeland's own journey as a trailblazer in the ballet world, overcoming numerous obstacles to achieve her dreams.

Myers, recognized for his contributions to children's literature, employs a distinct illustration style that integrates painting, photography, and collage.

For example, a review on KD Did It Edits appreciates the graphical elements of the book, especially noting the portrayal of a young black girl as the protagonist.

However, the same review critiques the narrative style, describing it as more of a promotional piece for Copeland rather than a story with a personal connection to the young dancer character.