I Dance

Diana Rañola was born in the Philippines and moved to the U.S. when she was 20 years old. She attended the De La Salle University in the Philippines where she completed her thesis on Singkil, a Philippine ethnic dance from the Maranao. Diana is a certified pilates instructor who also holds a Masters Degree in Public Administration (specializing in Financial Management and Public Finance) from New York University. She is a naturalized U.S. citizen and lives in Stanford, Connecticut.

Christine Almeda is a Filipino-American freelance illustrator & character designer from New Jersey. She grew up reading cozy books and filling countless sketchbooks with drawings. She later graduated from Montclair State University, earning a BFA in Animation & Illustration. Christine illustrates book jackets and picture books. She believes, through the power of creativity, art can make life more beautiful.

The text reads like a free verse poem and flows like a dance itself, with each page explaining a different dance. . . . A great introduction to and celebration of Filipino culture.
—School Library Journal

Rañola’s firmly crafted text leverages sound patterns and other phonics-based tricks to excellent effect, often to droll results. . .. This frolic concludes with a rather sweetinvitation to keep the swirling and twirling going. A pleasant and persuasive primer that also asks readers to get up and dance.
—Kirkus Reviews

Dancers and children interested in movement will particularly enjoy the visuals, while all readers will gain exposure to Filipino culture. This is a must-have early reader that supports independent reading, celebrates cultural expression, and encourages children to explore movement and tradition.
—Booklist