About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is looking for a physical outlet that connects them to a deeper sense of history and community. It is an ideal choice for children who may feel like they do not fit into traditional team sports or for those seeking to celebrate their Afro-Brazilian heritage through movement and music. George Ancona uses a vibrant photo essay format to introduce Capoeira, a unique blend of dance and martial arts that originated as a tool for survival and freedom among enslaved Africans in Brazil. The book highlights the Mandinga Academy in California, making the art form feel accessible and relevant to modern kids. Through the lens of these young practitioners, children learn about resilience, the power of rhythm, and the importance of cultural preservation. It is a celebratory, educational read for ages 7 to 11 that encourages self-expression and physical confidence while providing essential historical context about the African diaspora in the Americas.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book discusses the history of slavery in Brazil directly but age-appropriately. It frames Capoeira as a tool of resistance and liberation. The approach is secular and historical, focusing on the strength and ingenuity of the practitioners.
