Maria Tallchief is specifically written to meet the needs of adolescents and adults who are reluctant readers. The photographs, maps, and illustrations reflect the text, making the words easy to decode. This high-interest, low-vocabulary biography is ideal for English as a Second Language (ESL) or adult basic education students. Maria Tallchief (1925-2013) was a famous prima ballerina. Born to a father from the Osage tribe and a mother with Scottish and Irish heritage, Maria Tallchief discovered her passion for ballet at the age of three. At 17, she moved to New York City, where she studied under and then married George Balanchine. Her dedication and hard work resulted in a style of dance that dazzled audiences around the world. Maria Tallchief retired from dance at the age of 40, but continued to support and inspire young ballerinas until her death at age 88. Lexile level: 380L