Alphabet of Dance

K-Gr 3—This alphabet book highlights the expansive world of dance. The brief four-line rhymes for each letter are helpful in explaining some of the more obscure terms such as "gavotte," "kagura," and "ungkulatem," and could lend themselves to teachable moments as children may not be familiar with such places as Siberia and Martinique. Some of the rhymes flow more easily than others. Dances from the past-like the Mayan Xtoles—and the present day—such as hip-hop—are depicted in dynamic, colorful illustrations. They capture the flexibility and enthusiasm of the jitterbug and the grace of flamenco and ballroom dancing. Although most of the terms that represent a particular letter focus on types of dances, some define concepts such as "weighted foot," "ensemble," and "outside turn." A glossary provides additional information for each of the featured words, and an alphabet poster showing the terms is included. This book is well suited to browsing and will help children appreciate the universal world of the dance.—Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA