There is nothing in this world (or probably the next) quite like Mexican Folkloric dance -- the Aztec dances are strong and tell the story of the times with strength and grace and understanding. The more modern regional dances each has it's own set of costumes -- from the fluffy lace-ruffled Vera Cruz dress with the black apron covered with embroidered flowers to the wonderful black velvet straight dresses embossed with a rainbow of huge splashy flowers to the Vestida de listones -- the beribboned dresses of Jaliso with the sweeping skirts that measure 18 yards around. This, then is the story of four LA women who are part of a Folkloric dance troupe -- from the group's organizer to dancers, and to the award winning costume designer and seamstress who is in the US illegally. As the story unfolds each faces a life changing moment -- some head on, some in a way that later shames them. Reyna Grande handles this challenge beautifully, telling each of the four stories so that we can know the four women, and care about what happens to each of them. She thankfully avoids a too sweet it's all back together and we're all happy now ending that might have been tempting. Some things aren't meant to be and others are too broken to be fixed and she wisely understands that. Well done Reyna. I enjoyed the second reading this year as much as when I bought the book last year. I read this for my book club this month. I really wanted to like it and it had some redeeming qualities. I loved learning about the dance, the cultural, the costumes. That part of it was so interesting.However, the stories were mind-numbing. The ladies were terrible, the stories were terrible. The writing was wonderful, but I really felt the author did a disservice to those of that are just learning about what Folklorico is. It deserved some really good, really strong stories to surround the culture with. Instead we were left with sub-par soap opera-esque stories that made me want to smack each and every woman in this book.The ending was fine, and coupled with the way the culture was woven into the story, is the only reason this isn't a one-star.This book is recommended for those that don't mind shallow soap opera characters and who want to learn more about Folklorico. I really wish I could say I enjoyed the stories. I just didn't.
What do You think about Dancing With Butterflies (2009)?
amazing...can't put it down...has already made made me cry, smile and laugh..
—chris
If you like Mexican soap operas, this book is right up your alley.
—Danny
An enjoyable story with great female characters
—Kayla
