Garofoli, Wendy. Hip-Hop Dancing: The Basics.

Garofoli, Wendy.   Hip-Hop Dancing: The Basics.   

Capstone Publishers     2011  48p 22.99 978-1-4296-5484-5 

elm/ms      Graphic-non-fiction           VG-BNS

      Hip-hop moves are defined, and instruction is provided on the basic moves

of hip-hop in this 4-volume set.  Illustrations jump off the pages, are clearly

organized and wonderfully colorful. Open the book and enjoy!  The colors,

movements, text boxes and flow of this book are designed to attract young

readers to turn the pages and not put this book aside!  Each two-page spread

shows teenagers in a variety of poses that are clearly expressed and smooth-

flowing.  Noteworthy is the way the photography shows each move clearly and the

way that the illustrations appear to be 3-dimensional.  It is as if a cut-out

has been laid upon a background of swirling colors, making it stand out.  A line

connects each step of the instructions, running from one picture to the next,

and the style rocks!  Examples of some of the movements that are included in

this book are: Latin rock, threading, C-C, Six-Step, neck pops, chest pops, and

many more!  The text boxes appear as cut outs snipped by a child, and they are

particularly effective.  The “Tip” boxes are dark gray, making them stand out

against the bold, vibrant colors of the book.  The diversity is divine, and the

outfits are truly hip-hop.  The reader does not have to be a fan of this style

to appreciate the artistry, information and layout of this book.   A hip-hop

follower will want to continue with the next volume which is the sign of a good

book. “Hip-Hop Dancing” includes four book which showcase the basics, breaking,

popping & locking and dancing with a crew.  Illustrations support the

instructions in an effective manner and the explanations are easy-to-follow.

      Squaresky, Martha