
Written by Susanna Reich
A boy's passion for dance takes him from a Mexican village to global fame.
In a small Mexican village, young José Limón dreams of dance. With a heart full of rhythm, he leaves his family for New York, where his unique style captivates the world. Can his spirit and determination transform his dreams into reality? Follow José's journey as he dances his way into history, inspiring others to pursue their passions.
José was a boy with a song in his heart and a dance in his step. Born in Mexico in 1908, he came into the world kicking like a steer, and grew up to love to draw, play the piano, and dream. José’s dreaming took him to faraway places. He dreamed of bullfighters and the sounds of the cancan dancers that he saw with his father. Dance lit a fire in José’s soul. With his heart to guide him, José left his family and went to New York to dance. He learned to flow and float and fly through space with steps like a Mexican breeze. When José danced, his spirit soared. From New York to lands afar, José Limón became known as the man who gave the world his own kind of dance. ¡OLÉ! ¡OLÉ! ¡OLÉ! Susanna Reich’s lyrical text and Raúl Colón’s shimmering artwork tell the story of a boy who was determined to make a difference in the world, and did. José! Born to Dance will inspire picture book readers to follow their hearts and live their dreams.
4.5
out of 7
“This book was gorgeous and really interesting. The illustrations are great. I loved the way the story was told with rhythm, highlighting the rhythms surrounding us in everyday life.”
Trusted reviewer
Surprise a reader with their next favorite book.
Spotted a mistake or something missing? Improve this page.
Are you the author or illustrator? Claim your book.
Top contributors: Elaine R.