Title: Instructions for Dancing
Author: Nicola Yoon
Publisher: Random House Children’s
Publication date: June 1, 2021
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Summary
After her parents’ divorce, Evie has given up on love. She’s convinced that there’s no such thing as an eternal love story. When she goes to get rid of all of her romance books, she meets a mysterious lady that leads her to a dance studio. But she also gives her the ability to get visions of every romantic relationship she encounters, from beginning to end.
Going to the dance studio seems to be the only way that Evie can get rid of these visions. However, when she’s there, she meets X. Charismatic, handsome X. As the two enter a dance competition to save the studio, Evie finds herself falling for X. But what’s the point when Evie has proof that love stories never last forever?
Review: Instructions for Dancing
Thanks to NetGalley and Random House for providing me with an advanced copy of this to review! First of all, can we appreciate the gorgeous cover for this book? Nicola Yoon’s books are always pretty in some way, but I think this one takes the cake.
Right from the beginning, it’s easy to fall in love with Evie and her cynical ways. She’s transformed from a hopeless romantic to someone who doesn’t believe in true love. Evie’s voice carries you throughout the novel, fully enveloping you into her world. I think Yoon has a knack for writing strong characters, and this shines in this book.
The premise also felt fresh and unique to me. While the basic plotline isn’t one that’s necessarily anything new, I think Yoon put a spin on it that made it feel that way. The way that dancing contributes to Evie and X’s relationship also drives the story forward, and watching their relationship evolve as Evie opens herself back up again is a truly magical thing.
Don’t be fooled, though! Even though this book looks like an upbeat, happy book, it’s also about heartbreak. And the fact that just because there may be heartbreak in the future doesn’t mean that you don’t deserve to be happy in the moment. Trying to prevent tragedy just takes away from your happiness.
Seriously, I read this entire book in one sitting because I couldn’t put it down. I think this might be Yoon’s best book yet. It had everything you could want in a summer romance, and I highly recommend it!
4.5/5 stars