via Misty Copeland’s Facebook page

She may just be 30 years old, but ballet dancer Misty Copeland has a lot to write about. And that she will. Copeland just inked a two-book deal. She is working on a memoir for Simon & Schuster’s Touchstone imprint and picture book for G.P. Putnam’s Sons Books for Young Readers, part of Penguin Group (USA), reports AP (via Black America Web). Both books are scheduled for 2014. This follows her recently released 2013 calendar.

Copeland is third African-American female soloist for the American Ballet Theatre (ABT), one of the countries leading ballet companies. Early on, people took note of her exceptional ballet skills—even though she didn’t start her training until age 13. She made the news at age 15 when there was a custody battle between her mother and her ballet teachers, who were acting as her custodial guardians. In 1998, Copeland sought legal emancipation. Eventually everything was settled out of court and Copeland moved home to begin studying with a new teacher.

By 22, she joined the ABT’s Studio Company, and was a member of the corps de ballet in 2001. In 2007 she became a soloist.

Copeland has been captializing on her fame in the world of dance, working hard to build her own brand. In addition to the calendar and upcoming books, she has several endorsement deals, including one with Payless Shoe Source and Blackberry.

Brokaw Photography

Last night’s Vision Gala, hosted by the Dance Theatre of Harlem, turned out to be a star studded success. The fundraising event, at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel in New York, honored activist and entertainer, Harry Belafonte.

The Dance Theatre of Harlem, founded by Arthur Mitchell and Karel Shook, opened its doors in 1969. After decades of successes including international performances, education outreach programs and community outreach, the theatre went on hiatus in 2004 due to financial issues.

Last night, however, may be a turning point for the company. The fundraiser raised $390,000 which will benefit the Dance Theatre’s Next Generation Fund and Community Engagement Fund, which provides scholarships to dancers and supports arts and community programs.

With the help of contributions from last night, the company is within six months of touring again.

Check out pictures from last night’s event below.

Host Soledad O'Brien, Honorary Chairperson, Lynn Whitfield and ballerina, Misty Copeland.- Brokaw Photography

Brokaw Photography

Brokaw Photography

Brokaw Photography

Misty Copeland is an accomplished ballerina…and a bad chick. She’s the first African American female soloist for the prestigious American Ballet Theatre and she also graced the stage alongside music legend Prince during his recent tour. Rumor has it that she is currently dating the Purple One. You KNOW we asked her about that!

Find out what she said about the whole Prince thing and what it’s like being a black curvy girl in the world of ballet.