Capoeira

Review
By Booklist

Rooted in acrobatic fighting techniques developed by African slaves in Brazil, Capoeira is a cultural tradition that is increasingly popular in the U.S. Ancona’s photographic introduction to the movements and music that characterize Capoeira begins at a Capoeira academy in Oakland, California, and vivid, color photographs show a class of young, multicultural students practicing basic moves of offense and defense. . .Ancona’s photos give a sense of the complex, cartwheeling grace of its movements, and his enthusiasm and awe for his subject is contagious. Concise sections about Capoeira’s history and its practice in contemporary Brazil, as well as a glossary of Portuguese phrases and a list of Capoeira resources, deepen this welcome, attractive title on a rarely covered subject of growing interest to many kids.