Hey there, everyone and welcome back to From The Top! As the weather begins to cool down and Autumn takes it’s place, we know that there is nothing that says “warm and cozy” like curling up with a great book! What’s even better than reading a great book on a Fall day? Reading a great DANCE book on a Fall day, of course! Today, we will be taking you through some awesome dance books, written by dancers and choreographers of all genres, and express why we think these books would be the perfect add ons to your literature collection. From Modern to movement, these books are sure to open up the mind and offer valuable insight that a dancer can take with them along their journey. There’s even something in this list for the whole family! So without further ado, grab your coziest blanket and let’s get reading!
The Place Of Dance: A Somatic Guide to Dancing and Dance Making
By Andrea Olsen and Caryn McHouse
Our first book on the list is “The Place Of Dance” by Andrea Olsen and Caryn McHouse. This book is absolutely great for dancers and dance lovers alike! The reason being is that this book is not just about dance in its most common sense, but about the art of movement. “The Place Of Dance” provides a very interesting take on how the world around us connects us to dance. This book is written from a very mindful standpoint and makes us look at movement, dance and creating not just as dancers, but as humans. All in all, “The Place Of Dance” is a very informative, thought provoking and mentally stimulating read that we believe dancers would enjoy adding to their literature collection.
The Dancer Prepares: Modern Dance For Beginners
By James Penrod
If you’re about to take your first Modern dance class and want some quick insight on what to expect or how to prepare, then “The Dancer Prepares: Modern Dance For Beginners” is sure to be your perfect match! In this quick but effective read, James Penrod takes us through a brief history lesson on modern dance, what to expect as you go through your training and even modern dance terminology, all in 104 pages! This is also a magnificent booklet to hand out to your beginner students who are serious about learning the art of modern dance. Definitely a great tool!
Taking Flight
By Michaela DePrince
We all have our own recollections of the first time we witnessed the talent of Michael DePrince but mine would definitely be seeing her in the 2012 dance documentary “First Position”. Since the release of that documentary, Michaela has risen to extreme notoriety in the dance and ballet industry and has always inspired other young dancers along the way. Her memoir “Taking Flight” is a truly inspiring self-biography written by Michaela DePrince. She takes us along the journey of her beginnings in war stricken Sierra Leone, toher years of ballet training and ultimately the success she has seen today. “Taking Flight ” is an extremely encouraging book to all who read it and gives us all hope that no matter the path, we can always find a way to follow our dreams.
Bunheads
By Misty Copeland
“Bunheads” by Misty Copeland is a story told through the eyes of young Misty who discovers her love of ballet through her fascination with the ballet “Coppelia”. This book follows Misty through excitement, nerves, self belief and ultimately success. With it’s beautiful illustrations by Setor Fiadzigbey, “Bunheads” is not only a fun read for young dancers, but also for anyone who is looking encouragement that anything is possible with hard work and determination!
As you we head into the weekend, we hope you decide to give these books a try or even recommend them to the fellow dancers in your life! Who knows, you just might even have a new favorite to add to your bookshelf. 😉 We wish you a wonderful Friday, filled with love and light, and remember…
Keep dancing!
Lexi
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