Gillingham, Sara. Alpha, Bravo, Charlie: The Complete Book of Nautical Codes. illus. by Sara Gillingham. 120p. Phaidon. May 2016. Tr $19.95. ISBN 9780714871431.  

Gr 2-6 –Nautical codes, flags, and signals presented with examples of the boats and ships that might use them make this a unique and engaging reference for lower and upper elementary students. Letter by letter, A to Z, each nautical signal flag is listed with its name, its current meaning, and a short description of a likely situation for its use. Each explanation repeats the use of the phonetic alphabet word (e.g., DELTA) several times and is followed by a full-page rendering of the flag. (The A and B flags have the appropriate V-shaped cutout on the right.) The page immediately after that includes, again, the phonetic alphabet word, the Morse code sound and light signal, semaphore positions (sketched with a sailor with flags), and a short description of a boat or ship that might make use of the signal. The bold colors of the signal flags are carried throughout the volume, making for a lively design. The repetition of the phonetic alphabet word supports learning, and the images of the boats and ships—from diving boats and private yachts to submarines, tankers, and car carriers—add informational appeal. VERDICT More substantial than Chris L. Demarest’s Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, this selection stresses civilian rather than military uses and is appropriate for slightly older readers. Highly recommended for school and public libraries.–Kathleen Isaacs, Children’s Literature Specialist, Pasadena, MD