Fiction

"They will never allow a Jewish girl into the Imperial Ballet."

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Set in the enchanting world of tutus and Tchaikovsky in early 20th century Imperial Russia, all ten-year-old Elena wants in the world is to be one of the Tsar's beloved ballerinas. Her only trouble? Jewish girls like her are not allowed in the Imperial Ballet.

 

 With the help of a kind old widow, Elena is narrowly awarded acceptance under a false name, hiding her true identity. 

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But the Imperial Ballet School is not all frilly costumes and satin slippers. To accomplish her dream, Elena must overcome the most rigorous institution in Russia, academically and physically, and survive the school bully, Zoya,  the daughter of a famous aristocrat who has it out for Elena. All while keeping her true Jewish culture a secret. ​​​​

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My historical novel, The Matryoshka Doll, is a bildungsroman loosely inspired by the life of Anna Pavlova, one of the most influential ballerinas of all time. 

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Awards for an excerpt of The Matryoshka Doll:

• Finalist for Sundress Publication's Best of the Net 2017

• Nominated for a Pushcart Prize

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​Courtney will be seeking representation in 2025.