Starred review from October 1, 2024
Grades 3-5 *Starred Review* Latin dances bring extraordinary beauty, grace, rhythm, and soul to the dance world. This entry in the Let's Dance! series (6 titles) is a vibrant, engaging introduction to the world of Latin dance that will capture readers' attention from the first page. The book, designed with a clear and easy-to-read layout, begins with descriptions of different types of Latin dance such as the paso doble ("double step" or "two step"), merengue, cha-cha, and mambo. Markovics delves into the rich history of Latin dance, from its role with Indigenous peoples of Central and South America to its present-day popularity, helping readers understand that Latin dance is about not just movement but also heritage and tradition. The text also includes famous Latin dancers; the benefits of Latin dance; and fun, easy-to-follow instructions on a samba step. Gorgeous pictures of Latin dancers in movement brilliantly complement the flowing narrative and fascinating cultural details. A wonderful combination of the history, culture, and significance of Latin dance.
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November 1, 2024
Gr 3-5-"Let's Dance" expands children's knowledge of the history of various dance styles, and the dancers who became famous performing them. Each title follows the same formula: an introduction to the dance style, followed by its history and a spotlight on renowned dancers. The final chapter teaches readers one of the most popular dance moves from that genre. Vibrant photographs enhance the text and engage readers, while colored text boxes and background splashes make the visuals more appealing. The writing is clear, easy to follow, and thorough enough for readers who want to explore the genre. VERDICT Buy these titles where dance is popular or where replacement copies are needed.
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