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“In this lighthearted picture book, a young girl relates how she overcame her initial shyness and learned to love salsa dancing…Papi patiently guides her and explains salsa’s Afro-Caribbean heritage through its instruments: conga drums from Africa; the clave from Cuba; the guiro from Puerto Rico…A fun, appealing option for sharing, this book also offers well-presented facts about salsa, its origins, and history. This heartfelt offering should find a wide audience on public and school library shelves.”

– School Library Journal

I Am Salsa

Written by Jackie Azúa Kramer
Illustrated by Elisa Chavarri
Published by Quill Tree Books

Each Saturday night, Marisol’s family comes together to salsa! Everyone—from Mami and Papi to primos, abuelos, and tías—twirls and sways to the catchy rhythm.

But ever since Marisol was a baby, her clumsy feet get twisted, and her moves get mixed up. It’s better if she just sits and watches everybody else dance. Though, with a little help from Papi and some encouragement from her whole family, maybe Marisol can learn to feel the beat of the instruments from around the world.

Acclaimed author Jackie Azúa Kramer and award-winning artist Elisa Chavarri tell a heartfelt story about confidence, family, and the music and culture of salsa.

Primary ISBN: 9780063255463
Publication Date: September 2024
Available As: Hardcover
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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