On the day of the performance, Lupita’s partner twists his ankle. Señora López attempts to console her, but Lupita’s crushed. She wants so badly to show off her steps and whirl her outfit around on stage that she gulps hard to keep from crying at the thought of not participating. As her classmates begin to dance—and to everyone’s surprise—Lupita swirls out, hands up, in step with her imaginary partner. Everyone applauds her triumphant solo! Lupita’s ability to overcome heartbreak, self-doubt and fear serves as a good lesson for children and a reminder to us all that sometimes in life, we must have the courage to dance alone.
—Reviewed by Gisela Norat, Agnes Scott College, Atlanta, Georgia.
