Nicola Yoon's Instructions for Dancing is lauded for its engaging narrative and heartfelt exploration of love and loss. Reviewers praise the relatable characters and emotional depth, although some find the plot twists predictable. The integration of magical realism is often highlighted as a charming addition, despite occasional criticisms of pacing. Overall, it's a compelling read for young adults.

Readers who savor romance with a touch of magic will delight in Nicola Yoon's Instructions for Dancing. Fans of To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han and The Sun Is Also a Star by Yoon herself will appreciate its heartfelt exploration of love and destiny in a contemporary setting.

In Instructions for Dancing, 17-year-old Evie Thomas gains the mysterious ability to foresee the romantic outcomes of couples when they kiss. Disheartened by her parents' divorce, she meets Xavier "X" Woods in a dance class. As she navigates complex relationships and her growing feelings for X, Evie learns to accept love despite its risks and inevitable endings. The book mentions the death of a teenage character.

Romantic / Emotional / Bittersweet / Inspirational / Hopeful

- Instructions for Dancing is written by Nicola Yoon, who became well-known for her debut novel Everything, Everything, which was also adapted into a film in 2017.
- Nicola Yoon used to work in the financial services sector before starting her writing career full-time, applying her analytical skills to develop complex, emotional narratives in her novels.
- The book combines themes of romance and magical realism, a blend that continues Yoon's tradition of exploring love and fate in unique and imaginative ways.

**Yvette "Evie" Thomas**  
A former romance novel reader who struggles with her emotions and relationships due to her father's affair, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and growth.

**Xavier "X" Woods**  
A charismatic and optimistic figure who contrasts with Evie and plays a significant role in her personal development through his positive outlook on life.

**Grace Thomas**  
Evie's empathetic and strong mother, who serves as a source of support and guidance, helping Evie navigate her emotional challenges.

**Evie's Father**  
The source of familial conflict whose efforts to reconnect with Evie and his own imperfections serve as a catalyst for Evie's understanding of love and forgiveness.

Nicola Yoon

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Instructions for Dancing Summary and Study Guide

Background

Instructions for Dancing Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-5

Instructions for Dancing Chapters 1-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-13

Instructions for Dancing Chapters 6-13 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 14-20

Instructions for Dancing Chapters 14-20 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 21-27

Instructions for Dancing Chapters 21-27 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 28-34

Instructions for Dancing Chapters 28-34 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 35-41

Instructions for Dancing Chapters 35-41 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 42-48

Instructions for Dancing Chapters 42-48 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 49-55

Instructions for Dancing Chapters 49-55 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 56-60

Instructions for Dancing Chapters 56-60 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Instructions for Dancing Character Analysis

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Themes

Instructions for Dancing Themes

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Instructions for Dancing Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Instructions for Dancing Important Quotes

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Instructions for Dancing

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