Product Description
Visually stunning & culturally intriguing, ballroom dancing has long captivated participants & spectators around the world. In this fascinating book, John Lawrence Reynolds, a professional musician who performed in dance orchestras at major ballrooms, offers a fascinating glimpse into this quirky world -- a world of outlandish costumes & outspoken emotions, wrenching sacrifices & shocking scandals, heartbreaking failures & glamorous achievements. He covers everything from the simple joy of Spanish folk dances to the controversy surrounding ballroom dancing's quest for recognition as an Olympic sport. Includes more than 100 stunning color photos. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

A Lot of Fun!
OK...if you are a professional ballroom dancer, maybe you will find flaws in this book.I've read your criticisms of this book in the Amazon reviews.But, to an amateur (like me) who has only had 25 lessons, I thought this book was thrilling! I loved the color photography of the dancers in their glitzy outfits.I loved learning about what goes on before and after a competition.I loved learning about the history of the dance steps and famous ballrooms.This book gives you a wonderful inside look at ballroom dancing and I recommend it. It also makes an excellent coffee table book. People who don't even do ballroom dancing are fascinated with it and enjoy talking about it. So there!

let down
The book had too many poor photos. They were often so blurry they could hardly be seen. The better pictures were all split in the crack of the book and the good quality photos were of nonsense.

Captures Romance, Rhythm, Style and Athleticism of Ballroom
The book captures the essence of competitive ballroom dancing or what's now known as the Olympic-recognized "DanceSport". John Reynolds has done a great job in maintaining the views of the athletes andparticipants in ballroom dancing and profiles stars like Marcus & KarenHilton, the "Torvill & Dean" of Ballroom/DanceSport.Thisbook will hopefully continue toincrease awareness to the general public that Ballroom Dancing is more thana social activity, but an Olympic-recognized sport.

Great photographs, Phantom captions, Questionable layout
The full-color photographs featured in this coffee-table book are very stunning; truly an adventurous backstage tour of the action/glamour world of championship ballroom DanceSports.The written content of the editionis very discriptive.Did not appreciate the clumsey double-truck layout ofat least two large photographs.Poor layout!!! Reduce those largelandscape-format photos to fit on one page, not on two pages.Eliminatingthose annoying two-page photos would have allowwed for extra action shots. Need specific captions of every photo.Didn't know if these were amateur,or professional dance couples.I didn't recognise most of the couplesfeatured in the edition.The general content captions didn't work for me. Nonetheless, this edition is a welcomed addition to anyone's coffee-tablelibrary.

Captures Essence of DanceSport Nicely!
As a competition dancer, I enjoyed this book thouroughly.The text is rich, and captures the essence of the Ballroom Dance very well.Accurate in content, this book describes aspects of DanceSport in a way that issatisfying to dancers, and yet would be very enjoyable and informative tonon-dancers.Covering everything from the evolution of social dances tothe rigors of Blackpool competition, and from what to look for inrespectable dance studio to the disussion of DanceSport as an Olympicevent, the book is very complete. It is a must have for DanceSportenthusiasts.The photos are vivid, though I'd have liked some detail inthe captions. If you don't dance now, you'll want to give it a try by thetime you reach the back cover.Nicely done Mr. Reynolds. ... Read more

Product Description
The authors have lived it, now they share it—how to create joyful, harmonious partnerships on and off the dance floor. Dancing is supposed to be fun. But when dancers begin to snipe and bicker, they usually feel they have only two choices: stop dancing or change partners. In Ballroom Dancing is not for Sissies, authors, psychologists and amateur ballroom dancers Elizabeth and Arthur Seagull present a better choice—a simple system which prevents most relationship conflicts from occurring, and gives dancers a healthier way to handle them when they do. By learning and applying the 3Rs of Relationship Fitness, dancers can improve not only their dance partnership, but all their relationships! Warm and witty, Ballroom Dancing is not for Sissies uses real-life examples familiar to everyone who dances or does any other coupled sport. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (7)

not just for dancers!
I am an actress and a music teacher and I found this book exceptionally relevant to both the craft of acting, the art of teaching and my relationship with my husband. Many of the ideas I could apply to the process of acting and performing and the section in the last part of the book entitled "Some Basic Principles of Human Learning As Applied to Teaching Dance" was very helpful for my teaching. I love the "system of relationship fitness." I smiled at the humor that is part of their writing style and the quotes interspersed throughout are very thought provoking and inspirational. And..it made me want to dance!!

A read that may save many relationships
Good dancing can lead to good other things. "Ballroom Dancing is Not for Sissies: An R-Rated Guide for Partnership" is a guide for couples to increase trust in one another and improve their moves on the dance floor, and that these experiences will enrich the relationship both on the dance floor but in other areas of life. "Ballroom Dancing is Not for Sissies" is a read that may save many relationships.

This is one amazing book for dancers and to help anyone with their relationships!
I have written quite a few reviews on Ballroom dancing books and products and when I finished reading this wonderful book I sat back in my chair, looked at my husband and told him we should have had this book when we were doing ballroom and latin dance competitions. So much was explained that would have prevented so many conflicts. This book has basically changed my way of thinking with regards to partnership dancing and how to stop putting blame on your partner - in a word, 'respect'.

Elizabeth and Arthur Seagull, both obviously brilliant psychologists, have written a fun, comprehensive study on the psychology of dancing as partners as well as being partners in regular life.

One of the wonderful ideas is: "Rule of Three: Try a move three different ways and if you still can't make it work, write it down and take it to the next lesson". The lesson on "The Practice Session" sounded SO familiar! Again, if we would have had this book...oh well, water under the bridge ;-)

"Ballroom Dancing is not for Sissies" is chock-full of useful checklists and interesting dance and life quotes such as one by Benjamin Franklin, "Being ignorant is not so much a shame as being unwilling to learn".

This book is a must-read - I highly recommend it - kudos to you, Elizabeth and Arthur - and thank you so much for making your wonderful wisdom a part of my life!

~ Heather ~

Tangoing through minefields, with 3 R's
I was tipped off to this book by the authors, who saw my review of "Glamour Addiction."I am really glad I ordered and read it.I've been a dancer for almost twelve years and have danced with my husband that entire time: socially, competitively, and in shows.We've encountered pretty much every conflict scenario presented here and (I'm happy to say) have weathered them all due to at least one of us, at any given time, using the techniques the Seagulls recommend.

The Seagulls tread lightly over potentially heavy ground, with a common-sense approach, everyday language, and a good bit of humor.

I recently finished a teacher-training course and will certainly referring my students to this book.The three R's (Respect, Responsibility, and Responsiveness) will apply just as well to other "team" situations as to dancing.Sincerely recommended.

Getting along and having fun
This book is as much about human relationships as it is about dancing.The Seagulls have informed their study of dancing with their extensive knowledge about how we get along with one another; conversely, they have informed their understanding of the psychology of relationships with their clear observations about what goes on on the dance floor.Amateur and professional dancers alike will want to read this book, but so will anyone who works in a partnership or a team: physicians in a clinic, lawyers in a firm, carpenters on a building project, athletes on a team, musicians in a band or orchestra, scholars on a research team, diplomats and world leaders, married couples, and anyone else who has to work together with others in order to get a job done.This is a wonderful guide gently showing us how we can dance, work, and play together smoothly.As an added bonus the writing is as fluid and graceful as a beautiful dance and the humorous twists and turns make the occasional mistakes on the dance floor - and in our lives together - seem less catastrophic, and even the larger mistakes seem less insurmountable.As the North American book reviews editor of a major journal I rarely come across a book that is both powerful and accessible and has the potential both to teach and entertain as does "Ballroom Dancing is not for Sissies." Brava, bravo.

... Read more

Product Description
One morning, fifty-five-year-old Lydia Raurell stumbled across an ad in the local paper that read "Walk in Monday, dance out Friday." She did just that. A year later she reigned atop the national leader board--a first for a newcomer. This is her amazing story, recorded in her own words and in over one hundred breathtaking color photographs.

For the first time ever, immerse yourself in the magical world of ballroom dancing--a world where the details count--the shoes, the many dresses, the hair and the makeup--and the competition is stiff. While shows like Dancing with the Stars and So You Think You Can Dance have introduced ballroom dancing to millions of Americans, very few of them know what competing in dance is like. By following Raurell across the country on her journey to the top, readers will gain intimate knowledge of what the competitions entail, and what it takes to succeed. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Dancing Dangerously
As a new competition dancer, I looked forward to learning from this book. Unfortunately, the author is not accurate on too many items and cites no resources for some statements that she refers to as rules. I also found it annoying that she speaks repeatedly to the fact that she is so prudish that she could not cope with an open backed dress or her partner touching her skin, yet in the next paragraph jokes that she threatened to "kick him in the balls". Is she really so socially inexperienced that she needs to quote every corny moment that she shares as though each was the highlight of her life? The book was far too much an ego trip for the author and not enough information.

Dancing for Joy!
I have met Lydia and watched her dance at numerous ballroom competitions. She is a beautiful human being - inside and out - and her book attests to this. The photographs are wonderful, and the text truly inspiring. I recommend this book to those who dance, those who love to watch, and those who appreciate a story of faith, dedication, and success. And I look forward to seeing her dance again in the future.Elizabeth Colledge

How one fifty-four year old woman went from a clumsy beginning dancer to a ballroom dance winner in a year
A YEAR OF DANCING DANGEROUSLY: ONE WOMAN'S JOURNEY FROM BEGINNER TO WINNER tells of how one fifty-four year old woman went from a clumsy beginning dancer to a ballroom dance winner in a year. Her entry into a tiny local dance studio would lead her to become the national leader of dance, and tells of her journey through ballroom competitions to rise to the top.

Nothing new, lacks depth
I can't help but read any book about social/ballroom dancing, but it is rare for me to find one that stimulates questions and provides a unique perspective. Unfortunately, this book doesn't do that. It is pretty much like most others books with a similar theme: woman seeks and finds something more in life through the world of dance. She touches on the same benefits of dance that other authors reiterate, but she adds nothing new or fresh to the discussion. Having recently read Janet Carlson's "Quick, Before the Music Stops", which I couldn't put down and ended up reading in one day, I found this book to be somewhat boring and lackluster. Those who have been dancing for a while and have already heard this story multiple times will most likely not find much stimulation in this book. However, the author communicates her thoughts well and shares her journey with enthusiasm, so perhaps the ultimate beginner will be able to relax and enjoy her story.

Taking Risks Achieves Goals
Lydia Raurell begins her story with a verse from Ecclesiastes 3:1-4, "To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born,...and a time to dance."

Raurell's struggle to achieve her lifelong dream to dance demonstrates that it is never too late, even though many difficulties postponed her progress toward that goal.

When Raurell was nine, her dance instructor told her mother that her ankles would never hold up to the rigors of ballet. Lessons at the beginning of her second marriage ended when she realized that her family took precedence. Twenty years later, when the time was just right, she saw an ad that said, "Walk in Monday, dance out Friday." She walked in and her dance instructor, Angelo Caruso, introduced her to competitive ballroom dancing, where she waltzes, foxtrots, tangos, and slides with us on her way to realizing her dream.

Weaving her experiences with definitions of dance styles and explanations of competitive dance terms, Lydia describes her second year of dancing, in which she discovers that she may be a finalist for Top Female Student. Propelled by this possibility, Lydia and Angelo dance dangerously through six regions, dancing in twenty-two competitions in forty-five days. At the last competition before the final ball, Lydia comes down with the flu, and complications from the antibiotics sideline her with an inflamed Achilles tendon. Has she lost the title, "Top Female Student"?

This inspirational and educational book, beautifully written by a dancer who is also a writer, will motivate anyone who reads it. The story is accompanied by beautiful color photographs that swirl and dance the reader through the chapters. Anyone who has a dream will be encouraged by Lydia's effort, determination, and courage.

by Susan M. Andrus
for Story Circle Book Reviews
reviewing books by, for, and about women ... Read more

Product Description

This two volume set relates the history of the most popular social dances, where they began, which dances survived the test of time and why, and what attracted American men and women to social dancing in these periods. Unlike other books on social dancing that taught people How to Dance, this books not only describes the dances, but also WHY Americans danced. This two volume companion set is the most comprehensive collection of American social dance from the first settlements in 1607 throughthe birth of the nation in 1776and into the beginning of the 21st century. Social Dancing in America encompasses the global nature of the ethnic contributions to the formation of many unique American social dances. Those influences included theNative American Indian, Spanish, Caribbean, African, European, and other ethnic cultures that created original American social dances such as the Lindy Hop, Rock n' Roll, the Twist, Disco, Breakdancing, and Hip Hop. The book is also a celebration of the American spirit embodied among everyday individuals as they danced for fun, recreation, and family celebrations such as weddings.

During the twentieth century, social dancing in itself offered a parallel of the social, economic, and cultural traditions of each particular time period. For example, segregation and the Jim Crow mentality was cemented in place all over the United States and for most of the century dancing and dancing halls were strictly segregated.Segregation forced a mass migration from the south to northern cities and with it a transformation of the Delta Blues music into an American original - Jazz.Jazz gave birth to the Charleston Dance, as well as evolving into swing music and the Lindy Hop. In the latter part of the 20th-century, with the technological advancement of television, shows such as American Bandstand, Soul Train, Dance Fever, and eventually the MTV generation greatly influenced dance styles and the current new trend in dancing such as Rock n' Roll, Freestyle, Disco, Breakdancing, and Hip Hop.

Customer Reviews (4)

reference social dancebook review
I don't know if it is the best reference book about social dancing, but it is a very good one. I also don't know another reference book about social dancing to compare. I especially appreciate knowing that Arthur Murrey did indeed changed the social dancing for the worst, making the original dance as ridiculous and snobish instead to take its true reality (in the context of the dance) mainly because he wanted to make the dance more proper or acceptable, but to accept a dance not in its proper context is ridiculous and idiotic, a feeling I have for a long time and this book did confirm it.
By the way, I am a dancer, choreographer and performer in social dancing for more than 30 years,,,so I know what I am talking, but I wanted to read the book to be sure that my life experience as a dancer was close to the reality of what's going on.This bookdid confirm I am right on target if I can believe its contents.
Chgeck me if you like at http://www.myspace.com/pleibzig
The famous "dancing with the stars" seemss a joke compared with the real thing (meaning social dancing), except if you consider this show as "ballroom dancing".

Despite its limitations, a must-have text
This is the only book (well, two-volume set) I know of that attempts to provide a comprehensive history of social dancing in the United States. For that reason alone, it is a must-have for social dance fanatics like myself despite the high price tag. It is a great reference book and provides interesting information on the cultural and historical background of each time period. It also provides some amusing trivia on the social dance practices in America before the 20th century. However, I found that this book was much better in covering the swing dances, which is probably natural given that the author's dance background is mostly in swing. Being a Latin dance enthusiast myself, I found the Latin dances were not adequately covered and in some cases were not a good reflection of the history and importance of these dances. Some of the most fundamental aspects of Latin dance history in the U.S. was left out; bachata, for instance, was not even mentioned. However, this two-volume set is a tremendous leap forward in providing a reference and resource for social dance lovers. For this, it is a must-have.

A GREAT Review for this book
Lawrence Looks at Books: Gale Virtual Reference Library

Professional architect-turned-social historian Ralph Giordano has transformed his enthusiasm for dancing into an entertaining survey of this popular social activity. The author divides his history of American dance into 11 periods of varying length. He devotes the most detail to the twentieth century with essays describing periods from 10-20 years. For each chapter, an introduction details the chief political and social movements of the time. A second section enumerates and describes both styles and particular dances, frequently including specific steps. "Places to Dance," describes the settings where dances might occur from assembly rooms and cotillions to dance halls, discos and clubs. The encouragement of dance by developing media like film, radio and television is also described. The portrait that emerges is not simply a sketch of popular pastimes, but a narrative of debates over religious doctrines and changing mores, as well as the development of new means of communication, media and entertainment. From the Virginia reel, the waltz and the polka to the Charleston, the twist and breakdancing, each new dance and musical movement reflected changes in attitudes and cultural perceptions. Giordano captures both the enthusiasm and concern these changes caused a variety of people at many times in our history. His guide is well illustrated and his text makes frequent reference to sources listed in the wide-ranging general bibliography. Each volume is separately indexed and includes period-specific bibliographies. Supplementary materials include a filmography by type of dance plus a list of online dance manuals. This detailed survey will serve both academic and public libraries.

Author's Comments
As the author, I definitely wanted to write a scholarly contribution to the very much overlooked American cultural development of Social dancing, however, I wanted to present it in a writing style that would appeal to the average individual. I have discovered in my time within dance clubs, especially the swing dances, that many individuals enjoy dressing in period costume and are quite interested in the history of their favored dance style. So as it turns out, to date this is the first book of its kind that has put together both a general interest reader and a scholarly work that discusses social dancing in a complete social, cultural, economic, political, and historical context. Many social dance books of the period simply provided descriptions and step-by-step instructions on "how to dance" as opposed to why people dance. My book also provides a consistent theme that contemporary dances and the associated music and fashion were more often attacked by forces of social morality and often labeled the newest dance trend as "scandalous."

This book is not a book to teach people "How to Dance" there are literally thousands of publications and hundreds of dance studios available to do just that. This book is an attempt to provide a clear understanding of what was involved in the basic patterns and rhythms of the dance, the origins, the popularity, but most importantly to place each in a historical and social context. This book is about the dances themselves and their importance in a social context. Therefore, each chapter contains a brief introduction of the social, political, and cultural climate. The book is about how individual Americans; mainly couples interacted in a social dance setting.
... Read more

Product Description
Contents:

Chapter 1: Ballroom Dancing Is Making Waves
Chapter 2: Why Not Dance?
Chapter 3: So You Think You Can Dance
Chapter 4: History Of Ballroom Dancing
Chapter 5: Get In Shape With Ballroom Dancing
Chapter 6: Dance To Your Health
Chapter 7: Dancing Through History
Chapter 8: Dresses For Ballroom Dancing
Chapter 9: Where To Learn Ballroom Dancing
Chapter 10: United States Amateur Ballroom Dancers Association, Inc.
Chapter 11: Music For Ballroom Dancing
Chapter 12: The Wedding Dance
Chapter 13: Choosing A Ballroom Dance For Your Wedding
Chapter 14: Types Of Ballroom Dancing
Chapter 15: Ballroom Dancing - Slow Fox Trot
Chapter 16: Ballroom Dancing - Dancers, & Judges
Chapter 17: Ballroom Dance Clothing And Shoes
Chapter 18: Ballroom Dance Competitions
Chapter 19: Ballroom Dancing - The Jive
Chapter 20: Ballroom Dancing - The Viennese Waltz And The Quick Step
Chapter 21: Ballroom Dancing - Ballrooms
Chapter 22: Ballroom Dancing - The Tango
Chapter 23: Modern Ballroom Dancing - Standard Waltz
Chapter 24: Ballroom Dancing - The Paso Doble
Chapter 25: Ballroom Dancing - Judging Criteria
Chapter 26: Ice Dance For Those Who Love A Challenge
Chapter 27: Ballroom Dancing - The Handicapped And The Disabled
Chapter 28: Media Coverage Of Ballroom Dancing
Chapter 29: Ballroom Dancing And The Movies
Chapter 30: Ballroom Dancing And Television
Chapter 31: Why Dancing With The Stars Is Special
Chapter 32: History Of Dancing With The Stars
Chapter 33: Dances From Dancing With The Stars
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great Source
This book is considered "the book" of ballroom dancing.It contains wonderful information on body and foot positioning. The book covers Bronze to Gold level figures in all the standard smooth rhythms. Alex Moore may not have been able to dance international, but he did knowhis figures. ... Read more

Product Description

This two volume set relates the history of the most popular social dances, where they began, which dances survived the test of time and why, and what attracted American men and women to social dancing in these periods. Unlike other books on social dancing that taught people How to Dance, this books not only describes the dances, but also WHY Americans danced. This two volume companion set is the most comprehensive collection of American social dance from the first settlements in 1607 throughthe birth of the nation in 1776and into the beginning of the 21st century. Social Dancing in America encompasses the global nature of the ethnic contributions to the formation of many unique American social dances. Those influences included the Native American Indian, Spanish, Caribbean, African, European, and other ethnic cultures that created original American social dances such as the Lindy Hop, Rock n' Roll, the Twist, Disco, Breakdancing, and Hip Hop. The book is also a celebration of the American spirit embodied among everyday individuals as they danced for fun, recreation, and family celebrations such as weddings.

This book places social dancing in a historical, social, cultural, and political context. A History of American Social Dancing, is about the integral part that social dancing played in the lives of every individual in America from the first settlements in 1607 through the birth of the nation in 1776 and through the 19th century. The reader will be surprised to learn that George Washington was not only the most famous American of his time, but also a well-known aficionado of social dancing. He incorporated the etiquette and manners of dances such as the Minuet as a means of diplomacy to secure European allies such as France during the Revolutionary War of Independence. During his presidency he toured the country and was honored at each occurrence with a dance in his honor. After his death, Americans continued to celebrate his birthday with a grand ball that included dancing.

Customer Reviews (4)

A heroic but disappointing effort.
A comprehensive overview of American social dance has been needed for a long time. Mr Giordano is to be applauded for giving an admirable political and social background to the story of each period of dance he covers. Unfortunately his grasp of the subject of dance itself and his understanding of recent research in dance history is tenuous at best. He most often uses citations from secondary sources dating from the early and mid twentieth century, a time when dance historians often put more weight in their own opinions than in actual scholarship (i.e. Leon Dorfman's fanciful 1976 bicentennial recreation of the minuet). His first few chapters are filled with factual errors. (One sub-chapter title places the famous Philadelphia Meschianza in New York!) Writing this was a truly herculean task, and I picked up the book with both high expectations and a healthy respect for the amount of work done, but the bottom line is that there's still a need for a well researched volume by someone with a deeper understanding of dance, dance technique and dance history itself. A heroic attempt, Mr G, but this wikipedia-like mish-mash just doesn't cut it.

Despite its limitations, a must-have text
This is the only book (well, two-volume set) I know of that attempts to provide a comprehensive history of social dancing in the United States. For that reason alone, it is a must-have for social dance fanatics like myself despite the high price tag. It is a great reference book and provides interesting information on the cultural and historical background of each time period. It also provides some amusing trivia on the social dance practices in America before the 20th century. However, I found that this book was much better in covering the swing dances, which is probably natural given that the author's dance background is mostly in swing. Being a Latin dance enthusiast myself, I found the Latin dances were not adequately covered and in some cases were not a good reflection of the history and importance of these dances. Some of the most fundamental aspects of Latin dance history in the U.S. was left out; bachata, for instance, was not even mentioned. However, this two-volume set is a tremendous leap forward in providing a reference and resource for social dance lovers. For this, it is a must-have.

A Great Review from "Lawrence Looks at Books: Gale Virtual Reference Library"
Lawrence Looks at Books: Gale Virtual Reference Library

Professional architect-turned-social historian Ralph Giordano has transformed his enthusiasm for dancing into an entertaining survey of this popular social activity. The author divides his history of American dance into 11 periods of varying length. He devotes the most detail to the twentieth century with essays describing periods from 10-20 years. For each chapter, an introduction details the chief political and social movements of the time. A second section enumerates and describes both styles and particular dances, frequently including specific steps. "Places to Dance," describes the settings where dances might occur from assembly rooms and cotillions to dance halls, discos and clubs. The encouragement of dance by developing media like film, radio and television is also described. The portrait that emerges is not simply a sketch of popular pastimes, but a narrative of debates over religious doctrines and changing mores, as well as the development of new means of communication, media and entertainment. From the Virginia reel, the waltz and the polka to the Charleston, the twist and breakdancing, each new dance and musical movement reflected changes in attitudes and cultural perceptions. Giordano captures both the enthusiasm and concern these changes caused a variety of people at many times in our history. His guide is well illustrated and his text makes frequent reference to sources listed in the wide-ranging general bibliography. Each volume is separately indexed and includes period-specific bibliographies. Supplementary materials include a filmography by type of dance plus a list of online dance manuals. This detailed survey will serve both academic and public libraries.

Author's Comments
As the author, I definitely wanted to write a scholarly contribution to the very much overlooked American cultural development of Social dancing, however, I wanted to present it in a writing style that would appeal to the average individual. I have discovered in my time within dance clubs, especially the swing dances, that many individuals enjoy dressing in period costume and are quite interested in the history of their favored dance style. So as it turns out, to date this is the first book of its kind that has put together both a general interest reader and a scholarly work that discusses social dancing in a complete social, cultural, economic, political, and historical context. Many social dance books of the period simply provided descriptions and step-by-step instructions on "how to dance" as opposed to why people dance. My book also provides a consistent theme that contemporary dances and the associated music and fashion were more often attacked by forces of social morality and often labeled the newest dance trend as "scandalous."

This book is not a book to teach people "How to Dance" there are literally thousands of publications and hundreds of dance studios available to do just that. This book is an attempt to provide a clear understanding of what was involved in the basic patterns and rhythms of the dance, the origins, the popularity, but most importantly to place each in a historical and social context. This book is about the dances themselves and their importance in a social context. Therefore, each chapter contains a brief introduction of the social, political, and cultural climate. The book is about how individual Americans; mainly couples interacted in a social dance setting.
... Read more

Product Description
Master any dance in minutes with the first major dance instructional book/DVD from America’s bestselling dance instructor

Cal Pozo, director of the bestselling “Dancing with the Stars–Cardio Dance” DVD and creator of the multi-platinum award-winning “Learn to Dance in Minutes” series, has taught more than three million people how to dance with his patented “Reverse View” method. Over the years, thousands of his fans have asked if he also had a dance instructional book.

Here is the package they’ve been looking for: an easy-to-follow, fun-to-watch book and DVD combination that gives the reader multiple angles and methods from which to learn. In addition to basic step patterns and rhythms, you’ll learn:
-Smooth dances like the classic foxtrot, waltz, two-step, and tango
-American rhythm dances like the Lindy and the hustle
-Latin dances like the salsa, mambo, chacha, rumba, and merengue
-Line dances like the Electric Slide, the Macarena, the Tush Push, and the Boot Scooting Boogie

From the foxtrot to the Lindy hop, the merengue to the Macarena, you’ll learn how to identify each style of dance so that you’ll be prepared for any type of dance party. Whether you’re looking to wow the relatives at your wedding, impress your boss at the holiday party, or get a spot on “So You think You Can Dance?,” Let’s Dance! Weddings and Parties will have you moving and grooving, turning and twirling, and hopping and bopping with the best. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

How to Get a Replacement DVD
My dvd didn't work either, but I contacted Hatherleigh Press, the publisher, directly and they were happy to send me a replacement dvd.The new dvd works great and now I have learned the waltz just in time for my wedding

Waltz on DVD will not start
Instruction for beginers. Beatiful video, but I cant follow it dancing. If I want to dance well, I need a real instructor. If you go to beginers dance class you can get here some very useful basic information to upgrade your knowlege.

Good instruction
This is a good basic instruction book for the beginner with two left feet.The DVD was defective because it did not play the waltz instructions and I returned it once.When the replacement was also defective, I just kept it. ... Read more

Product Description
Marriage Is Like Dancing uses the biblical themes of the image of God and the mystery of the one flesh union of marriage to assert that marriage is not whatever we choose to make of it, but it is what God has made it to be. Readers will identify with the sometimes humorous, sometimes difficult, nature of dancing that parallels the humorous and difficult nature of marriage. This is not a book on how to fix a bad marriage, but how to support a good marriage. Newlyweds who want to get started in building a good marriage will also find this book useful. The author shares personal illustrations from his own marriage and offers a discussion guide for couples. Each chapter opens with a short story about dancing which leads into a discussion on marriage. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

The Lord Leads Us Forth in His Peace & Victory
Taking parallels from his venture into ballroom dancing lessons with his wife, Eyer equates what they learned there with marriage.And he correctly spends the time defining and protecting God-instituted and led marriage versus what the unbelieving culture would corrupt it to be.

Ephesians 5 proclaims that the roles in marriage are not the same for male or female, and they are not to be confused, abused or exchanged.This the author relates so wonderfully to marriage.It is equally hard to lead in dance and marriage as it is to follow in both activities.Submission for the wife is no harder than sacrificially loving for the husband.

And the true joy of this book is the relating that is done of all this to the real marriage, that of the Bride of Christ, the Holy Christian Church to its Groom, Jesus Christ.This book continues to make this connection refreshing and creatively and clearly.The parallels between dance and spiritual life are aptly drawn and communicated.I further think this sage advice applies to the church's dance with its leaders, the pastors.

Eyer's wife Susan follows his lead at the book's end with a fine chapter on following from her perspective.There is also fine discussion questions recommended not for group discussion, but personal couple use.

Everyone who wants to work on their marriage, be it current or dreamed for, this work will be a fine resource.My only mild criticism, I didn't want it to stop, but wanted to read on.But, there is such fine stuff to continue to chew on, and bring to the dance.

Concise and Wise
I've read a few books in my pre-marital counseling before reading "Marriage is like Dancing" and I feel like I'm re-reading a lot of the same information. However, I don't think this is a bad thing at all! This book is relatively short in length and packed full of great advice and wisdom. Using dancing as a metaphor for marriage allows the author to give lots of great physical/visual comparison that often helps the reader understand the point he is trying to make. The only downside to this is that if you haven't done much formal dancing some of the points may be harder to understand than it would be to a person who understand the struggles of leading, maintaining a good frame, etc.

An Excellent metaphor for Marriage
When I was reading this book on the airplane recently, it caught the eye of several people. Author Richard Eyer chooses an intriguing metaphor to illustrate the godly estate of marriage, namely ballroom dancing. While I'm not much of a dancer myself, you don't have to be one to appreciate this book. Eyer illustrates how God has designed marriage, and how the roles of the husband and wife can work together to make marriage into a beautiful picture of love.

Relating the dancing metaphor to biblical passages on the submission and love of the husband and wife for each other, he talks about the importance of a husband leading properly, and the wife following. And yet while the husband leads and the wife follows, the dance of marriage presents the wife as the focus and beauty of the relationship. He talks about how many problems in marriage can be traced to the improper leading of the husband, and also how some times in life may require the wife to lead for a few steps until the leadership of her husband can be returned.

There is also an excellent chapter on aging gracefully in marriage and dealing with the circumstances that may arise later in life, like responsibility for aging parents. One of the features of the book that made it particularly winsome, was the afterword by Eyer's wife, where she affirms the blessing it has been for their marriage to follow the biblical pattern. Overall, the book is written in a very congenial and positive manner, and with humor and humility on the part of the author.

As the author indicates, the book would be ideal for a newly married (or soon to be married) couple, or for those wanting to strengthen a good marriage. It is not designed for repairing a marriage gone badly, though it may provide strength and direction to a marriage that has been repaired. Discussion questions are given for a one-to-one dialogue between husband and wife, to explore some of the issues raised in the book. As a pastor, I could heartily recommend this book to any newlywed couple. It's another book I'd gladly read and re-read.
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Comprehensive,well written,enjoyable & great photos by author!
Comprehensive,well written,enjoyable & great photos by author!

This is a well researched book which is delightful in its coverage of so many aspects of the current Ballroom Dance World.

It is especially well written, & some incredible photographs are shared, taken by the Author himself.

It would seem to me that this topic has extended applications for gerontology, immunology, and fibromyalgia, not to mention the wonderful workout and 'joie de vivre' one enjoys , even vicariously, reading this excellent book.

Thanks to the Author! ... Read more

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This one-stop practical guide will show you how to enjoy and excel at ballroom dancing. To make your progress easier, it comes in a handy format with colour photos and expert advice throughout.This easy-to-use introduction is essential reading for anyone who wants to learn to Ballroom dance. There is a chapter devoted to each of the most popular dances. Foot diagrams, step-by-step photographs and clear instructions will help you to master the steps and sequences. In addition, there are fascinating facts about the origins of each dance, plus a comprehensive directory of dance schools, publications, clothes and shoe suppliers and websites.Topics covered include: dress codes; dance holds; foxtrot; waltz; quickstep; rock 'n' roll and jive; ballroom tango. ... Read more

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Learn how to play your favorite sport or participate in your favorite activity in this exciting series from Compass Point Books. Each book in the For Fun series features bold, full-color photos, informative text, and all sorts of fun facts about your favorite pastime. A quick reference guide, timeline of important events, instructions on basic skills, biographies of notable people, glossary, and index are included. ... Read more

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Now in a new updated edition, The Joy of Dancing is an accessible beginner’s guide to ballroom, Latin, and rock/jive dancing, with step-by-step instructions and sequential color photos throughout.

Lively and practical, this newly updated classic from Peggy Spencer, the grande dame of formal dancing, is a handy workbook designed to enable novice dancers of all ages to practice in the privacy of their homes. The easy-to-follow instructions and clear sequential photos allow both partners to follow all the essential moves for the waltz, cha cha cha, quickstep, mambo, foxtrot, samba, rock/jive, tango, merangue, and rumba. The book also includes a general history of each dance and Peggy Spencer’s personal tips on everything from fitness and clothing to music. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Not helpful for dance steps
The book is too brief on describing dances and shows more pictures of dancers than pictures of footwork. I did not find it very helpful at all, even for the dances I already knew.

A book for the absolute beginner
This book is for starters- the beginner who wants to be equipped with the very basic steps of each dance will be delighted to be able to master these steps in the space of a week . Obviously, a superficial treatment of eachof the dances ranging from Waltz, Tango, Foxtrot (No Quickstep) , Cha-Cha,Jive & Mambo.

The steps learned are not sufficient to enable one to'move' on the floor and must be supplemented by other 'serious' texts. ... Read more

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Tired of being a wallflower?In this pocket-sized reference, you'll learn the basics of ballroom from world-famous cruise ship dance instructor Lance Laguna.Here are lessons for the waltz, fox-trot, cha-cha, tango, merengue, and swing - complete with groovy etiquette, choosing a partner, and much more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Pearls of dance floor etiquette wisdom
This charming little book is full of technical information and interesting facts about six different dances, but my favorite part is the section covering to-the-point tips on plain old good manners on the dance floor, for both partners.Thanks, Lance Laguna!

Dance! Dance! Dance!Lance Laguna
What a delightful little book!I ballroom dance and reading was a good review of private lessons. Good advice written in an entertaining way.I've ordered for several of my dance friends. It is more than a card for essentially the same price.Well illustrated with an attractive cover.I loved the 'songbird' tip and must remember to refrain from it!Thanks Amazon Georgia

Lessons from the Master
I'm sorry to say I never heard of Lance Laguna until I read this book. But boy, can he dance! Even though this book is very small, it has a lot of valuable lessons in it.I hope that one day I can take a cruise and learn from the Master himself! ... Read more