Today I want to share about two great additions to add to your collection, especially if you teach in a K-5 elementary school. These books share the stories of Robert Battle (now the Artistic Director of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater) and Amalia Hernández (Founder of El Ballet Folklórico de México).
The 2015 book My Story, My Dance shares the story of Robert Battle's early childhood in Florida, finding his passion for dance, moving to New York, building his career, and landing as the Artistic Director of Alvin Ailey. I personally learned a lot of new details reading the book. Author Lesa Cline-Ransome did an excellent job documenting Battle's career path in a way that students in elementary schools will understand and grasp. The book is a perfect introduction before students head to an Ailey show this school year. James E. Ransome's illustrations are detailed drawings to capture movement as well as facial expressions and emotions within the story.
Second, check out the 2017 publication of Danza! by Duncan Tonatiuh. I learned so much about the development of one of the most famous ballet folklorico companies in the world. Tonatiuh also follows the dancer's path from early childhood to discovering dance to building a career in dance. The distinctive artwork beautifully captures the swirling of the folklorico skirts, the partner dances, the costumes, and the musicians.
Please consider adding both books to your personal collection or asking your school's librarian to purchase copies for the school.
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