Kitchen Disco

K-Gr 2—"At night when you are sleeping/there's a party in your house." And of course that party is an amazing fruit dance off! The lemon break-dances, the banana spins records, and the grapes start a conga line. But this title isn't meant to be read so much as it's supposed to be sung! The beginning of the book lists a website that offers an animated video of all of the characters and the actual melody to the song, which gives off a hilarious early 1980s hip-hop vibe. Much like the early "Pete the Cat" series or the new Eric Litwin books, this volume works even better when paired with the actual music, and readers can easily follow along to the beat. But the melody and lyrics of "Kitchen Disco" are slightly more complex; kids and adults will still be jumping and dancing around in excitement, but they will have difficulty singing along in a storytime setting. A creative storyteller will be able to come up with ways to incorporate the audience, but the author doesn't leave clear moments for participation, which feels like a missed opportunity. The illustrations are simplistic, and sharp, fat lining and blinding color add to the wild atmosphere and experience.