Dancing Hands: How Teresa Carreño Played the Piano for President Lincoln
What’s inside...
A young girl named Teresa Carreño, who immigrated to the United States from Venezuela, learns to play the piano and eventually plays for President Lincoln during the Civil War. Despite facing challenges and discrimination, Teresa's passion for music and her determination to succeed lead her to become a renowned pianist and a symbol of hope for her community. The story is based on real events and is illustrated with vivid and imaginative paintings that bring the historical period to life. The author, Margarita Engle, is a Cuban-American poet and novelist who has written many award-winning books for children and young adults. The book is also the winner of the Pura Belpré Illustrator Award.
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Teresa Carreño
Manuel Antonio Carreño
Discussion points
How do you think Teresa felt when she played the piano for President Lincoln?
What challenges did Teresa face, and how did she overcome them?
Why is it important to share our talents with others?
Can music change the way we feel? How did Teresa's music affect those who listened?
Tip: Role play these questions
While discussing the book, relate to your own experiences with learning a new skill or performing in front of others, and share those moments with your child.
Encourage your child to think about a skill or talent they are proud of, and discuss how they can share it with others.
Ask your child to imagine they are at the performance for President Lincoln and describe what they see, hear, and feel.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience
Explanation: Teresa Carreño demonstrates resilience by continuing to play piano despite the challenges she faces, including political unrest in her home country and moving to a new country.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persevere through their own challenges, whether it’s learning a new skill or adjusting to changes in their life.
Example Lesson: Courage
Explanation: Teresa showcases courage by performing in front of President Lincoln during a tumultuous time in history, proving her willingness to share her art despite fears and uncertainties.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to express themselves and face their fears, whether in public speaking, performances, or in expressing their own opinions.
Example Lesson: Empathy
Explanation: The story portrays Teresa’s sensitivity to the emotions of others, particularly illustrated when she chooses music that might soothe a grieving President Lincoln.
Real-World Application: This can teach children to be considerate of others' feelings and how they might use their talents to help or comfort others.
Example Lesson: Cultural Appreciation
Explanation: Teresa’s music introduces cultural elements from her Venezuelan roots to her American audience, highlighting the importance of cultural exchange and appreciation.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of cultural diversity and the beauty of sharing and experiencing customs and traditions different from their own.
Example Lesson: Historical Awareness
Explanation: Through Teresa’s interactions and the setting of the Civil War era, children gain insights into significant historical events and figures, such as President Lincoln.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to take an interest in history and learn about the impact of past events on the present world.