Hip-Hop Dancing

Children's Literature - Barbara L. Talcroft

Dance is an appealing topic for pre- and early teens. Who doesn't want to make those fabulous moves? This set of "Snap" books explores six forms of movement popular with kids (modern dance being conspicuously absent). In four or five chapters and conversational prose, each volume tells a bit about the genre's history, shows vital steps and moves, and spotlights a successful performer. Hip-hop, Freese explains, is really a way of life. Born in the South Bronx in the 70s and 80s, the culture included graffiti artists, DJs, and MCs, soon becoming immensely popular. Fading after that, hip-hop dancing has made a comeback and is now seen worldwide in music videos, cartoons, and commercials. To get started, the author recommends taking hip-hop classes and watching dance DVDs or hip-hop competitions. Warming up each time is important and so is getting the right hip-hop gear (loose jeans and cargoes; tanks, T-shirts, and sweatshirts; baseball caps and bandanas). Mastering the moves takes lots of practice; many of them, including spins from breakdancing, are demonstrated here with color photos of b-girls and b-boys working hard and moving on to freestyling. (The recommended website worldwidedanceuk.com offers video clips of some major moves.) The ultimate goal is forming a crew and entering competitions called battles, where the best crews and freestylers can win medals and even cash. A friendly format, lots of color, and encouraging words will attract middle readers—just so they do not forget the endless practice and grueling work behind the dreams. Reviewer: Barbara L. Talcroft