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Cynthia Leitich Smith

Jingle Dancer

"Jingle Dancer" is a picture book written by Cynthia Leitich Smith and illustrated by Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu. This charming story centers around Jenna, a contemporary Muscogee (Creek) girl who wants to dance in the upcoming powwow. However, she doesn't have enough jingles for her dress. The narrative weaves together Jenna's modern life with traditional elements of Native American culture. Jenna's family and neighbors, each with their own unique backgrounds and contributions, help her gather the necessary jingles from vintage dresses. This sense of community and the importance of cultural heritage are significant themes in the book. Leitich Smith's lyrical text is both accessible and engaging for young readers, while the illustrations by Van Wright and Hu provide a vibrant and diverse representation of the characters. The images also serve to highlight the contrast between Jenna's everyday world and the rich cultural traditions she is a part of. "Jingle Dancer" is a celebration of heritage, community, and the power of persistence. It offers a positive representation of Native American culture, which is often underrepresented or misrepresented in children's literature. This book is a valuable addition to any library, providing a rich and enjoyable reading experience for both children and adults. This annotation is intended to provide a brief overview of the book's content, themes, and significance. It is not a comprehensive review, but rather a summary aimed at helping potential readers understand what they might expect from the book...