Wednesday, February 14, 2018

Danza! Amalia Hernandez and El Ballet Folklorico De Mexico by Duncan Tonathiuh -ADVISABLE

Tonathiuh, Duncan Danza! Amalia Hernandez and El Ballet Folklorico De Mexico.  PICTUE BOOK/NON-FICTION.  Abram, 2017.  $19. Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: G.

This book tells the story of the career of Amalia Hernandez . She was a dancer, choreographer, and manager of the world famous El Ballet Folklorico De Mexico. Readers learn how she gained the support of her family for dancing, her hard work to learn dancing, her inspiration, and much more. Filled with incredible illustrations that feature movement and texture.  

This is a fantastic book for a number of reasons: as a celebration of Mexican heritage, as a biography of an inspiring woman who built a fantastic career, as a story for those interesting in dance, and my favorite: as the story of someone who found inspiration in history and culture, researched it, and brought it to life to share with the world. This would make a great read-aloud, especially if it was paired with videos or read before a cultural performance. It would not make a particularly great biography for a report as it does not include many personal details, its main focus is just her career. Top notch artwork!

EL (K-3), EL – ADVISABLE.  Stephanie, Elementary School Librarian & Author

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