The Dance that Crossed Color Lines
Written by Dean Robbins, Illustrated by Eric Velasquez
This is a cool book that talks about how the dance “Mambo” in the 1940s helped spark the civil rights movement that would later make history in the United States. Talking about dance as a special way for people to express themselves, the book shows how various cultures and groups would use this activity, but would have to do so separately, only interacting with those similar to them. However, a new band named Machito and His Afro-Cubans came and created a new type of music they called “Latin Jazz.” Using this music, an all-inclusive dance was created and people from various backgrounds and races were gathered to not only hear and enjoy this new music and dance, but also to dance together. This helped break barriers for people and showed “a dance that defied segregation.” A super cool read that would be very easy for students to understand. It is not something you hear about very often but it was powerful! Definitely recommend!
Reviewed by Chelsea Johnson, Librarian, West Kearns Elementary
Review shared in October 2022
Rating: ★★★★★ (5 stars)
Interest Level: Grades 2-5
¡Mambo Mucho Mambo!: The Dance that Crossed Color Lines
Written by Dean Robbins, Illustrated by Eric Velasquez
Candlewick Press
40 pages
Release Date: November 23, 2021
ISBN: 9781536206081
A review copy was provided by the publisher.
