More Reviews , Comments , and Commendations

Book Review:
By Kellie A. Ciotti Coordinator, FEEDS College of Engineering -
Florida Atlantic University
Advisor to FAU Ballroom Dance Club
Boca Raton, FL
(reprinted from: The Internet Ballroom & Swing On-Line Discussion Group)

MAY I HAVE THIS DANCE

Jeff Allen has written a wonderful book on this basics of Social Dancing that will make anyone feel like dancing. 'Quickstart To Social Dancing' begins with an overview of the basic techniques needed to get started. Explanations of a dance step, dance position, and timing were explained. The analogies used to clarify points of technique make it understandable and engaging.

"Quickstart..." continues with descriptions on the basic steps in six dances. Allen does a good job of showing how these dances are interrelated. So that by the end of each description, everyone is able to dance the steps! Graphics are included to show the progression of the steps....This book is a great tool, not only for beginners, but for those who may have been away from dancing awhile and need a little refresher. Used in conjunction with lessons, Allen's book will propel one beyond the beginner level fast.

Jeff Allen makes it clear that anyone can learn to dance. There is no such thing as two left feet. "Quickstart To Social Dancing" is a valuable aid to a beginner Social Dancer. Many thanks to Jeff Allen for expanding the number of resources available to those interested in dance.

Kellie A. Ciotti, Advisor
Florida Atlantic University Ballroom Dance Club
Boca Raton, FL

Book Review
By Sue Comparetto, Dancing USA Magazine

Jeff Allen has finally written the book I have been waiting for. He has written a text that is easy to pick up and read, and will actually teach you to dance. A "Quickstart To Social Dancing" is something I think will appeal to my audience --- men that need to learn to dance! I think every dancing woman will want to buy this book for her non-dancing mate. Since I am on a campaign to recruit men into dancing, to better balance the numbers of men and women, this book will provide me with just the tool I need. It will be much easier for the average male to pick up this primer and feel comfortable about dancing, than to walk cold into a dance studio. Jeff makes it easy for them too, with real life analogies and good illustrations to walk them through the elements of dance. I highly recommend every dancer wanna-be to pick up this book.

"Teaching is far more art than science. Jeff Allen's unique talent as a dance teacher is his ability to translate physical experiences into verbal instructions. Having had the opportunity to preview sections of 'Quickstart', I am delighted to see that this teaching skill extends to his ability to write clearly. 'Quickstart' is the first user friendly beginner-level dance manual I have come across."
Mary F. Roche, B.Sc.,M Ed., MAT 21 years teaching English & Home Economics

Alison Smith, Editor RI Jewish Herald writes to Jeff Allen under a separate cover 10/11/96:
"...The review should be in the next issue of The Herald...'Quickstart' appears unique, accessible and supportive - three Must Haves in a how - to book."..........

"I Wish I Could Have Danced - All Night

Jeff Allen has written a book for the faint of heart and heavy of foot called 'Quickstart To Social Dancing'
Beginning with what one might call the anatomy of dancing - the easy shifting of weight from foot, the best way to achieve a comfortable balance so you are not lurching from side to side, and a definition of 'time' in dancing , Allen moves on, step by slow careful step, from the Foxtrot to the Cha-Cha and the Merengue.
The tone is conversational throughout. The book is filled with diagrams and illustrations. Each movement is described in full detail. Some may find Allen's tone a bit patronizing...others will feel that they need every bit of advice they can get, from the toes up. It's a personal thing, and depends on how much confidence you have in yourself generally.
This book seems perfect for the man or woman who literally has never danced, or who is so alarmed by the prospect that paralysis sets in. Read, and follow the book, and then, because reading about something and practicing by yourself in seclusion is never the same as going public, take a lesson or two from a good instructor. With Allen's book behind you, the terms and basic steps will be familiar territory. A professional instructor will just have to correct tiny missteps and apply the finishing polish. "

by Alison Smith, Editor The Rhode Island Jewish Herald - October 17, 1996

"Please accept my enthusiastic 'Thank you' for joining us at Weddings '96-'97... our stage activities played an integral role in creating just the right first impression. And that is where you came in... I must admit that when you told me of your intention to teach willing audience members how to dance on stage, I was a bit skeptical. Skeptical that they would first, go on stage, and second, catch on so quickly. Well you did it ! And - they even appeared to enjoy the process.....

Deborah A. Calcagno, AICI Weddings '96 - '97 Producer

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