Drum Dream Girl: How One Girl’s Courage Changed Music. 10 min. Dist. by Dreamscape. 2016. $38.99. ISBN 9781520013213.

PreS-Gr 2 –What do you do when your talents and dreams remain unfulfilled? That was the problem facing Millo Castro Zaldarriaga. A girl of Chinese African descent living in Cuba, Millo was surrounded by a rich culture and a world filled with rhythms begging to be shared. In a tradition where boys were the only ones allowed to play the drums, Millo seemed doomed to keep her hands still and the joyous beats she heard in her head unexpressed. Fortunately, rules were bent, talents were nurtured, and an artist became internationally recognized for her skills. This bright and optimistic presentation is based on the 2016 Pura Belpré Award winner by Margarita Engle. Adriana Sananes’s vibrant voice celebrates the story, and lively background music adds the finishing touches. Rafael López’s bright and imaginative illustrations are delightfully yet simply animated, creating a feast for the eyes. A bonus feature contains a historical note about Zaldarriaga. VERDICT This is an inspiring and buoyant presentation that will entertain and inform young viewers. It would be valuable for music programs and cultural diversity studies.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary, Federal Way, WA

This review was published in the School Library Journal October 2016 issue.