Tap Dance: Top 10 Best Books

Tap Dance: Top 10 Best Books

Discover the Best Tap Dance Books

If you’re passionate about tap dance or just starting to explore this vibrant and rhythmic art form, you’re in the right place. We’ve curated a list of the top 10 best books on tap dance, from historical overviews to practical guides. Each book offers unique insights, making them must-reads for dancers, instructors, and enthusiasts. Let’s dive into this captivating world of tap dance literature.

10. Perspective Grid Sketchbook: 1-Point Room, 1-Point, 2-Point, and 3-Point Perspective Grid – 170 Pages – 8.5″x11″ Practice Workbook by PerS Arts

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.1 out of 5 stars)

This sketchbook is a valuable tool for dancers who also enjoy drawing. It provides various perspective grids that help in sketching dance movements and stage designs. Ideal for visualizing dance sequences, this book can enhance your understanding of spatial dynamics in dance.

Buy Perspective Grid Sketchbook

9. Five Points: The Nineteenth-Century New York City Neighborhood That Invented Tap Dance, Stole Elections, and Became the World’s Most Notorious Slum by Tyler Anbinder

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5 out of 5 stars)

This historical account dives into the origins of tap dance in the notorious Five Points neighborhood of New York City. It’s a fascinating read that links tap dance to its cultural and social roots, providing a rich context for the dance form’s evolution.

Buy Five Points

8. The Tap Dance Dictionary by Mark Knowles

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5 out of 5 stars)

A comprehensive reference for tap dancers, this dictionary by Mark Knowles includes terms, steps, and techniques. It’s an essential resource for both beginners and advanced dancers looking to expand their tap dance vocabulary.

Buy The Tap Dance Dictionary

7. Shoot Me While I’m Happy – Memories from the Tap Goddess of the Lower East Side by Jane Goldberg

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.9 out of 5 stars)

Jane Goldberg’s memoir is a delightful journey through the world of tap dance. Her anecdotes and experiences provide an insider’s view of the dance scene, making this book both entertaining and enlightening.

Buy Shoot Me While I’m Happy

6. The Essential Guide to Tap Dance by Derek Hartley

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.2 out of 5 stars)

Derek Hartley’s guide covers everything from basic steps to advanced techniques. It’s a practical book for anyone looking to improve their tap dance skills, complete with detailed instructions and illustrations.

Buy The Essential Guide to Tap Dance

5. Pole Tricks Journal Planner | 424 Pole Dance Moves WOW Catalog. For Beginners and Advanced. The Most Complete Pole Shapes Set by Unknown Author

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3.9 out of 5 stars)

Though primarily focused on pole dance, this journal planner includes a wide range of dance moves that can inspire tap dancers. It’s a unique resource for expanding your dance repertoire and exploring new movements.

Buy Pole Tricks Journal Planner

4. Five Points: The 19th Century New York City Neighborhood that Invented Tap Dance, Stole Elections, and Became the World’s Most Notorious Slum by Tyler Anbinder

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.5 out of 5 stars)

Another entry by Tyler Anbinder, this book provides a deep dive into the cultural melting pot that gave birth to tap dance. It’s a compelling read that links historical events with the evolution of this dance form.

Buy Five Points

3. Life Is Better When You Tap Dance: Tap Dancing Journal Notebook Composition Book (6 x 9) Blank Lined (120 Pages) Novelty Gift by Tap In Journals

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.9 out of 5 stars)

This fun and quirky journal is perfect for tap dancers who want to jot down their dance notes, routines, and inspirations. It’s a great gift for dancers and instructors alike.

Buy Life Is Better When You Tap Dance

2. Dance Coloring Book: Dancers Of All Ages, 50 Unique Designs, Ballet, Ballroom, Hip Hop, Tap, Jazz, Varying Detail by Madole Labs

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5.0 out of 5 stars)

A creative and relaxing way to engage with dance, this coloring book features a variety of dance styles, including tap. It’s suitable for all ages and offers a fun break from traditional dance practice.

Buy Dance Coloring Book

1. What the Eye Hears: A History of Tap Dancing by Brian Seibert

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.7 out of 5 stars)

Brian Seibert’s comprehensive history of tap dance is a must-read for any enthusiast. It covers the origins, evolution, and cultural impact of tap dance, making it an essential addition to any dancer’s library.

Buy What the Eye Hears


This curated list of tap dance books offers something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned dancers. Whether you’re looking for historical context, practical guides, or just some creative inspiration, these books will enhance your tap dance journey. Happy dancing!

Check out other Top 10 lists about Performing Arts!


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Discover the top 10 best books on tap dance, perfect for dancers and enthusiasts. From historical insights to practical guides, find your next read today!

Tags: Tap Dance Books, Best Tap Dance Books, Tap Dance History, Tap Dance Guides, Dance Literature, Tap Dance Resources, Tap Dance Enthusiasts, Tap Dance Instructors

Author: Samantha Reed