Category: Dance books Dance is a form of art that has been practiced for centuries. It is an expression of emotion, creativity, and movement. Dance books are an excellent way to learn about different dance styles, techniques, and history. In this review, we will discuss five popular dance books in the category of dance books. 1. The Tap Dance Dictionary: This book by Scott Joplin is a comprehensive guide to tap dancing. It covers everything from basic steps to advanced choreography. The author provides clear instructions and detailed explanations of each step, making it easy for beginners to follow along. Additionally, the book includes history and cultural significance of tap dance, which adds depth to the understanding of this art form. Overall, The Tap Dance Dictionary is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning about or improving their tap dancing skills. 2. Dance and Somatics: Mind-Body Principles of Teaching and Performance: This book by Martha Eddy explores the connection between dance and somatics, which is the study of the body as a whole. The author provides practical exercises and techniques to help dancers improve their physical and mental wellbeing. She also discusses the importance of mindfulness in dance, which can enhance performance and creativity. Dance and Somatics: Mind-Body Principles of Teaching and Performance is an excellent resource for anyone interested in exploring the deeper aspects of dance and how it can benefit the body and mind. 3. African American Dance: An Illustrated History: This book by Susan Vaughan provides a comprehensive overview of African American dance history. It covers everything from traditional dances to contemporary styles, including hip hop and jazz. The author includes detailed descriptions and illustrations of each dance style, making it easy for readers to understand the cultural significance and meaning behind these dances. Additionally, the book includes biographies of famous African American dancers and choreographers, which adds depth to the understanding of this art form. Overall, African American Dance: An Illustrated History is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning about the rich history and cultural significance of African American dance. 4. Group Motion in Practice: Collective Creation Through Dance Movement Improvisation: This book by Joanna Haigis explores the use of dance movement improvisation (DMI) in group settings. The author provides practical exercises and techniques to help dancers improve their collaboration, creativity, and communication skills. She also discusses the importance of DMI in collective creation, which is the process of creating art through collaborative effort. Group Motion in Practice: Collective Creation Through Dance Movement Improvisation is an excellent resource for anyone interested in exploring the use of dance movement improvisation in group settings and how it can enhance creativity and collaboration. 5. Flamenco: Conflicting Histories of the Dance: This book by Esther Borgeson-Sheffield provides a comprehensive overview of flamenco, which is a traditional Spanish dance style. The author covers everything from the history and cultural significance of flamenco to the techniques and choreography involved in performing this art form. Additionally, the book includes biographies of famous flamenco dancers and musicians, which adds depth to the understanding of this art form. Overall, Flamenco: Conflicting Histories of the Dance is an excellent resource for anyone interested in learning about the rich history and cultural significance of flamenco. In conclusion, dance books are an excellent way to learn about different dance styles, techniques, and history. The five books discussed above provide a comprehensive overview of various aspects of dance, including tap dancing, somatics, African American dance, group motion in practice, and flamenco. Each book provides practical exercises, detailed explanations, and cultural significance, making them excellent resources for anyone interested in exploring the world of dance.