Book Description

Suki’s favorite possession is her blue cotton kimono. A gift from her oba¯chan, it holds special memories of her grandmother’s visit last summer. And Suki is going to wear it on her first day back to school — no matter what anyone says.

When it’s Suki’s turn to share with her classmates what she did during the summer, she tells them about the street festival she attended with her oba¯chan and the circle dance that they took part in. In fact, she gets so carried away reminiscing that she’s soon humming the music and dancing away, much to the delight of her entire class!

Filled with gentle enthusiasm and a touch of whimsy, Suki’s Kimono is the joyful story of a little girl whose spirit leads her to march — and dance — to her own drumbeat. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

An exuberant story
Suki's Kimono is the heartwarming picture book story by Chieri Uegaki of Suki, a young girl determined to wear her favorite blue cotton kimono to school because it is a cherished gift from her beloved grandmother. Suki's friend warns her that it seems weird, but young Suki is determined to follow her own heart. A delightful tale Suki's Kimono is an exuberant story which is wonderfully enhanced for young readers with the brightly colored illustrations of Stephane Jorisch.

Go, Suki!
This charming story is one that every child should read (or have read to them!). Not only does it have an encouraging message and introduce aspects of Japanese culture; it's also VERY beautifully illustrated, and Chieri Uegaki's writing is a pleasure to read. I love the way she phrases things, like when Suki sits close to the taiko drummers and feels "like she'd swallowed a ball of thunder and her whole insides quaked and quivered." Buy this book -- you won't be disappointed. ... Read more

Book Description

Born to save tap

Fuh-duh-BAP! Fuh-duh-duh-BAP! A new language, a new sound. Savion Glover has redefined tap dancing, and it can never be the same again. He speaks to the world with a power and ease that has stunned and captivated millions. This exciting biography captures that essence--often in Glover's own voice--and treats readers to an inside look at his work while also providing a brief yet compelling history of tap dancing. Reverberating with the rhythm of a unique musical language, the book includes more than 50 photographs and features an eye-catching two-color design.

"He's the greatest tap dancer to ever lace up a pair of Capezios or any other tap shoes."-- Gregory Hines in the Foreword to Savion: My Life in Tap

2001 Best Books for Young Adults (ALA)

"He's the greatest tap dancer to ever lace up a pair of Capezios or any other tap shoes."--Gregory Hines in the Foreword to Savion: My Life in Tap ... Read more

Reviews (6)

For all you tappers out there
Hello to all those tappers out there - I love all of you - Including you Savion. My name is Vaughan and I am actually Australian. My mother taught me how to tap ever since I could stand on two feet. Now, I'm 19 years old. And I'm a professional tap dancing teacher in Japan. Let me just say that I could relate a lot with what Savion was talking about. His views on tap and the way he wants it to go.

It's a fun book to read - with some great action tap shots of Savion throughout his life. The layout is very original, and very creative - it was nice to take my mind off my uni degree for a couple of hours and learn about this extremely successful tap dancer. Someone who I didn't know too much about, but now somehow believe that I've known him all my life.

It's a great art - Tap Dancing. And I wish there were people who could indulge themselves in a couple of professional / guest classes. I go around all of Japan teaching in my holidays, and I try to get as many people involved. Maybe because not many people do it, thats what makes it so unique. Thanks Savion - for following your dreams and publishing this book. It was a great read.

Your fellow Tap Dancer... Vaughan

Best book I've read for a long time
I couldn't put this book down. As a tapper, who is into hoofing and rythm tap, this book was amazing. It explains not only Savin's life and his career but how he uses his shoes to do what he does. This book brings an element of percusion into the dance world that needs to be more widely used.

His Voice Is Finally Heard
We've been hearing his wonderful rhythms for years, now we finally get to hear his voice. What a true inspiration! This book just makes you want to jump up and start moving your feet. Believe me, this book is not just for children. I used it as required reading for my advanced tap class at the local college.

Keep Rockin Savion!
Great design, photos, behind the scenes of one of the greatesttap dancers, Savion Glover! All the info on Savion in one quick read- great for all ages.

Way to Go Savion!
Thank you sir for sharing your wonderful inner world of rhythm with the world! You are an inspiration to all of us who make a living lacing up those tap shoes everyday. Your loving and pricelesss contribution to this wonderful artform are greatly appreciated and honored. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Great book for beginner readers!
This is a great book for beginner readers. Both of my girls (ages 4 and 5) love it. I would definitely recommend it. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

My little girl loved this book!!!
My little girl is four and she loved this book...a favorite!!!

Perfect for my ballerina wannabe
This book is a perfect buy for any parent who wants to show their little girl what ballet lessons would be like; without actually viewing a class. Using actual photos, it shows little girls preparing for ballet class (barre excersizes and plies in the kitchen, hair prep., tooth brushing) it shows an actual class at the barre, making friends, streaching. Then it shows the girls getting their tutus out for a ballet recital. Make-up, hair and head pieces, along with pre-show jitters. Some shots of a recital and the after shots with proud parents and flowers. A perfect way to show your future ballerina what ballet classes are all about.

This is my favorite book
My mommy and daddy read this book to me every night. I want to be a ballerina and this book shows little girls like me at ballet school. I love the pictures. They show the girls dancing without using too many big words. I would suggest this book to any girl who likes to read about ballerinas! ... Read more

Book Description

"Dance with me, Daddy!"What father could resist?Willy Welch celebrates the simple joys of parenthood. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

KIds will love this book, mine does.
My 8 year old son and I just listened to Willy Welch read thisbook to a room full of kids of all ages. Even the smallest kids werelistening to him. This a book that is on my Christmas list for other kids in my family. ... Read more

Book Description

Reviews (2)

From ballet to book
"Coppelia" is a fantasy story retold by ballerina Margot Fonteyn, with paintings by Steve Johnson and Lou Fancher. The story concerns Dr. Coppelius, a European dollmaker who is also an alchemist. Coppelius creates a remarkably lifelike doll who becomes involved in an unusual love triangle.

The paintings by Johnson and Fancher are an ideal complement to this story of love and magic. The photographic reproductions of the paintings are excellent; you can actually see the texture of the paint on the canvas. The art wonderfully captures a quaint European village; the artists include such details as half-timbering and ornamental stonework on the dollmaker's house.

According to a supplemental note, ballerina/author Fonteyn actually danced in the ballet version of this story; that fact gives the book an added touch if interest.

Coppélia
Margot Fonteyn's rendition of the French ballet Coppélia is wonderful. It is the story of a young man named Franz who is enamoured by a beautiful girl who sits by the window in the house of the mysterious dollmaker, Dr. Coppélius. This of course makes his betrothed, the fiery Swanilda very displeased. However, things are not as they appear to be. The story has an excellent flow to it and the illustrations have an impressionist feel to them---one can actually see the brush strokes---and are very lovely. This book makes a great bedtime story and I highly recommend it to children who like ballet or those who have yet to discover its charm. ... Read more

Book Description

Frank was a monster who wanted to dance. So he put on his hat, and his shoes made in France... and opened a jar and put ants in his pants! So begins this monstrously funny, deliciously disgusting, horrifyingly hilarious story of a monster who follows his dream. Keith Graves' wacky illustrations and laugh-out-loud text will tickle the funny bone and leave readers clamoring for an encore. ... Read more

Reviews (22)

A great (not so scary) story for Halloween
As you may have noticed from several other reviews, 4 years old is the 'magic age' for the audience of this fun and colorfully illustrated book. The rhyme-verse is easily memorized in only 10 or 15 readings (by most 4 year old patrons). Now my daughter loves to read the story to me (complete with "meows" and "boffo" comments). --> Good preschool training in word recognition and phonics (when she confused boffo with bravo we had the opportunity to discuss that you need to read more than the first letter...). Though the text is rather stylistic type, she has no problem in recognizing the letters.
She also has come up with some interesting questions like: why does his brain have orange polka dots... do our brains have polka dots and worms in them? Why does he have a zipper on his head? and other things that parents face daily from inquisitive 4 year olds....
The subjet matter is VERRRRY appropriate for this time of year (Halloween) but is funny and not scary to the little ones. If you can believe it, I have not been bored by the book and we have read it over 22 times in three weeks. (So it's ok for parents too...)
Heartfelt thanks to several listmania reviewers who recommended it!

Frank Was A Monster Who Wanted To Dance
I bought this book a month ago to read with our 4 year old son. The wonderful illustrations were the first thing to catch my eye -- after reading it, the writing is just as great as the illustrations! My son has asked my husband and I to read this book to him every night for the last three weeks -- adults and children will laugh out loud at the loveable Frank who only wants to dance as his body unexpectedly unzips, falls off, or drops to the floor. A great read any time of the year -- not just at Halloween!

GREAT book!!!
My two and 1/2 year old loves this book! I first saw it for sale in New Orleans, then later ordered it because I could not get the cute illustrations out of my mind. My son thinks it is wonderful. We have read it so much in the past few months that we are wearing out the pages. My son particularly likes to examine the picture of Frank's brain (on the floor) and ask about the blue/purple worms that are coming out of it! I hope to see many more books from Mr. Graves. He has a true gift. The illustrations are wonderful and the text is funny and entertaining. I enjoy this book as much as(or more than my son!

Frank Boogies
My 2 year old son absolutely loves this book. Believe it or not, he learned his body parts from watching Frank lose his. My son also is not afraid of monsters because of the lovable Frank. At first, some people may feel like this inappropriate for young children but the tone is funny and kids like the beat (no pun intended)

Love It
This book is simple and funny. It is my little boys favourite book. It is a great choice for the little monster-lover in your family and the illustrations are just so beautifully done, so much detail! I recommend it for boys ,in particular, aged 3-6, maybe 7. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

For the ballet lover
Just adored this book and felt compelled to let everyone know how great it is. I think Isadora's illustrations and text were right on. I love ballet and used to dance when I was younger. I even performed so can identify with all aspects of this book. I will purchase it for any ballet dancers I know and hope it has a high profile amongst ballet lovers wherever they are!

This Is The Real Thing
I am a ballet teacher and a student gave me this book for an end of the year present. I was so enthralled by the reality of the images and words that I bought this book for my students to read in our lounge area. Everyone loves it and can identify with the settings and happenings. I think this book not only shows some real goings on in the ballet world, which is actually difficult to find, especially for children, but is delightful for all ages to look at.....over and over again. I highly recommend this book for all blooming dancers and ballet lovers as well. Thank you, Ms. Montane

No more tutus
So I'm in a bookstore, picking up yet another copy of 'Wheels on the Bus' for my toddler, when my six year old asks for a book too. I agree and she finds this one. I'm thinking that this is just a little girl ballerina book, so I buy it without, unfortunately, READING it first.

I sat down with my daughter to read it when we got home, and the farther I read, the more horrified I became. An excerpt:

"She is thin
And she is tall
And she is pretty
They've got it all

I know I'm short
I know that I'm round
But I want to dance
So I stand my ground"

*If that isn't the prelude to encouraging an eating disorder, I'll eat my hat.

Here's more:

"If you fight backstage
Go far away
The audience hears
Whatever you say"

or

"It doesn't matter
If you're the best in the room
If you don't fit
Into the costume"

*This book is for five and up?

About 25 years ago, I was in a regional ballet company. As a result, I have many concerns about very young children doing ballet on this level. This book isn't about dolly dinkle dance recitals or dreaming of tutus which is what I thought would be in this book.

No, I don't think that the woman who wrote this book meant any harm, but then again, she hasn't a clue about parental concerns and dance or she wouldn't have written the book this way. I'm sure those who 'love dance' will love this book. I used to love dance until I saw what it did to the bodies and minds of young people. There is a serious difference between enjoying dance class and this stuff. And considering that this book is for very young girls, I think that it's inappropriate fare. I think it's a bad set up for the future if they take it to heart. This isn't something that I want to normalize for my kid. However, it's a real taste of the dance world. And it reminded me as to why I'm so careful as to what sort of activities that I allow my child to get into. JMO, but if your kid is six and it isn't merely fun, they shouldn't be doing it. And no tiny tot should be in pointe shoes...

The irony is, by the time the child would be old enough to handle this stuff on a real level, they wouldn't be reading children's books.

The book is being returned. I would have given it NO stars, but that wasn't an option. ... Read more

Book Description

Newbery Honor author Suzanne Fisher Staples turns to India for her newest novel, published to starred reviews, about a young girl whose destiny calls her to dance. ... Read more

Reviews (27)

WOW!
When I first saw this book in a school book order that comes monthly, I said I have to get this. ...
Parvati is born on a terribly bad day, a day when a storm and flood occurs, killing her father and half her village. It was supposed to be a day of celebration, for the Maharaja of her home district. But irony took a swing and hit. But despite, she is born with an odd power to charm animals and dance magnificently. She is forbidden to dance though, be her mother Meenakashi, because it only brings scorn and punishment to her family.
Anyway, word gets out to a guru, and he asks her to come with him to his Gurukulam to learn to dance. She accepts, although it is quite painful to leave her family, her mother especially. She learns to dance at the gurukulam, much of which, where the story takes most of its place, and Parvati lives as a full time student, studying Indian dance and learning other Hindustani dialects. Her only friend, Nalini, falls in love with a terrible theif lord, and runs away with him soon after. But Parvati pursues her destiny still, and soon is asked to perform at the palace of the Maharaja in her very home town, for his birthday, the very day 15 years ago that was so terrible. She gets to see her family again, who have changed very much. She also falls for the Yuvaraja Rama. She must choose either him, or her destiny. Which? I won't tell, you have to read it! Buy it just because its a good book, and will inspire you. ;)

Magical Book
A very mysterious and good book. Parvati is born during the biggest storm India can remember and every one in the village blames it on her. Parvati is different. She has a 6th sense w/ animals and much more happens to her, stuff that wouldn't happen to normal people. A man comes to her house one day and offers her a place @ a dancing school where only very gifted dancers go. Parvati goes to give her mother the money she gets from being @ the school. (payed to go to school!? WOW! That would be GREAT!!) Parvati & her school mates go to Parvati's home town to perform for the Raja. (is that what it's called?) Parvati then meets the prince. An oddball, like her and if I'm remembering right, born on the same day as her. They eventually fall in love. The prince knows all the secret passage ways through the palace and can get to Parvati's room through her closet! Now, this part I didn't like much. He's came whenever he pleased at times & b-4 they really love each other, Parvati is snappy and the prince bratty. I didn't like this part @ all. This is why I give the book 4 stars and not 5. Not the best book, but good. I wouldn't choose to read it again, but it was okay. If u love India or dance, you'll like this book. But if you've got a short attention span, I wouldn't say u'd like this book.

Excellent Read,Highly Recommended
I found this book in the local library during one of my many visits to the childrens and young readers section.

The story of Parvati is told in vivid language and clarity. The story focuses on Parvati and her troubled soul. She is a dancer through and through. Parvati has special talents and skills and the lore of her village and eenher uncles home is that she is unusual and maybe using witchcraft. Parvati's story is of the typical underdog but one who uses her powers for good and makes choices for her family and not herself.

An uncommonly good book, full of virtue and a look into life in an Indian village.

Oh WOW!! WICKED BOOK!!!
Oh WOW!! I read this book like two years ago and I think I read it again last year but this is SUCH AN AWESOME BOOK!!!! When I was done reading, I went over and read some parts again. What a cool book. The ending is so... Magical! The way she and the raja's son go there seperate ways because Parvati was born to dance! She and the raja's son were born on the exact same day at the exact same time! I don't want to tell the whole thing or ruin the surprise(I probably already did) But what an AMAZING book. It even has translations at the back. BUY IT!!!! LOL NO YOU REALLY SHOULD!!! bye !! >^,,^<

A True Jewel!!!
I happen to be in love with Indian dance and culture. This book took me to another world - A world where I could dream of dance and India. The story remains intriguing and is beautifully told! the words suzanne uses to describe certains scenses create an instant picture of indias exotic landscape, cities, villages and people. I recommend this book to anyone between the ages of 12 to adult. it is an easy read, for the younger readers, yet it is beautiful and interesting enough for the older readers as well. If you are at all intersted in the power of Lord Shiva, India and dance this is the PERFECT book for you!! :) By the end you are wishing there were hundreds of pages left! ...i wonder if she'll write a sequal!!...i really hope so!!! ... Read more

Book Description

Told in letters, journal entries, e-mails, doctors’ reports, and instant messages, the heartbreaking story of an aspiring ballet dancer battling leukemia.

From: Melinda Skye
To: Readers
Subject: Jesse

Hi! I can’t believe it. What a surprise from Jesse. When he got my e-mail about being accepted by the Washington School of Classical Dance’s summer program, he called to congratulate me! I loved hearing his voice. We’ve been friends forever–could it turn into something more?
Melinda

From: Jesse Rose
To: Readers
Subject: Melinda

I couldn’t believe the news. Melinda is so young! How could she be sick? How did she get leukemia? She’s got to get better.She’s got to.
Jesse

... Read more

Reviews (36)

Inspirational...
If you are interested in reading a real tear breaker or an inspirtational book then you should most definaly read this one. A Rose for Melinda by Lurlene McDaniel was incredible. The way the book was writting was outstanding and creative, allowing your mind to wander and picture the events that were happening.
Melinda was an inspiring to me. Not once did she give in or give up. No matter what happened or how hard life got, she didnt give into her problems. When she found out that she was sick, it didnt stop her from following her dreams or her heart. Jesse was her best friend and that friendship eventually blossomed into something more, something great. Jesse was there for her through every step that she took. He was the rose that kept Melinda's life sweet.
If you are someone who is fighting a problem and have a dream to live then find the time to read this book. I highly recomend it.
From this book i have realized to follow my heart and my dreams and never give in...mayve it will help you as well.
Have a wonderful day!

EXCELLENT!!
This was the first Lurlene McDaniel book I ever read. It is about a girl named Melinda. Melinda has been best friends with a guy named Jesse Rose since Kindergarten. Melinda is also a ballerina. One day in ballet class, Melinda faints. Melinda is diagnosed with leukemia! Besides all of these events going on, Melinda and Jesse's relationship is taken to the next level. They start to become more than friends. Also while this is going on, Melinda's friend Bailey develops a crush on Jesse but of course she doesn't tell Melinda. The book is told through emails between Melinda and Jesse, Melinda and Bailey, Bailey and Jesse. There are also diary entries and mostly narrated pages. This is a very tearful book! Keep a box of tissues nearby!!!!!!!!

OK, not the best
Melinda, a ballet dancer, thinks she has it all. A great friendship with a boy, (which she secretly hopes will turn into something more) a loyal best friend, and real hope she'll make it as a ballerina. Yet it's all shattered after she collapses at summer camp and is diagnosed with leukemia.

Told through journal entries, e-mails, letters, and doctor's reports, this story was a tear-jerker/romance, but poorly written and already done a hundred times before. Good read if you're board and not looking for five star material, but don't go out and buy a brand-new copy.

And You Think You Got It Bad..
And You Think You Got It Bad..
In this book, Melinda is a sweet young girl with a passion for ballet. She has a best friend named Jesse who she met in 1st grade and his parents got divorced so he moved to California with his mom.
Melinda has lots of dreams, one especially is to be a professional ballet dancer one day, but little did she know she was diagnosed with leukemia at age 14, and so this book shares Melinda's thoughts, feelings and life events writing in letters, emails and diary entries.
I really enjoyed this book because it taught be that life is alway s worth living for even though there are some bad but some good always believe in yourself and never give up especially on your dreams.

Reviewed by Jennifer Yu, 6th Grader

Weird...blah....dumb
i dont' like this book...it was so dumb...it gave me a headache...blah blah blah is all i saw when i read this book...i went to sleep with a headache because of this dumb book...why is this book so dumb? the author should really think about others and not to give them headaches... ... Read more

Book Description

Other mice scurry, but not Tessa. She boogies, bops, shimmies, and hops.On her family¹s raids through Mrs. Timboni¹s kitchen, Tessa tap dances across the teapot and sashays with the saltshakers.Soon, Mrs. Timboni brings home a cat named Oscar, who is no ordinary cat. He doesn¹t like to nap or chase mice at all! Instead, he croons on the counter, sings in the sinks, and trills on the table! Is it any wonder there is magic when these two finally meet? ... Read more

Reviews (4)

LUUUV IIIITTTT
I love this book Beautiful illustrations My name just happens to be tessa

Wow, and I thought "Don't Need Friends" was great!
You haven't lived until you've read this book! The characters are absolutely charming and the story line teaches children of all ages the importance of enjoying life to the fullest. Nice illustrations, too, but the best part is the writing...so clever!!

Loved it!
My daughter's brought this home from the library--my oldest picked it out because her sisters name is Tessa. Much to my suprise this little mouse is alot like my Tessa. It's a wonderful children's story with wonderfully colored pictures. We've only had it one night and have already read it 3 times!This is definately one to add to your bookshelf!!

This is the best book I have read in my whole life!
I loved this book. The pictures are hilarious! My children ask me every night to read this book to them over and over. You would think I would be tired of reading it, but I am not. There are so many funny things to look at in the pictures, that it keeps the interest of not only my children, but myself as well. If you want to buy a funny book, this is the one! ... Read more

Book Description

Sassy worries that her too-large feet, too-long legs, and even her big mouth will keep her from her dream of becoming a star ballerina.So for now she's just dancing in the wings, watching from behind the curtain, and hoping that one day it will be her turn to shimmer in the spotlight.When the director of an important dance festival comes to audition her class, Sassy's first attempts to get his attention are, well, a little wobbly.But Sassy just knows, somehow, that this is her time to step out from those wings, and make her mark on the world.

Actress/choreographer Debbie Allen and Kadir Nelson collaborated on Brothers of the Knight, about which School Library Journal raved, "the strutting high-stepping brothers are full of individuality, attitude, and movement." ... Read more

Reviews (14)

Dancing In The Wings
This book is about a ballerina who is taller than the rest of the students who take ballet and so is made fun of by them. Nobody is tall enough to be her partner so she never can display her talent until one day a man comes in to hold auditions for a dance festival. No one thinks that she can make it. Will she have a chance to show off her true talent?

I enjoyed reading this book because it shows that even though other people may think that you can't succeed, it really depends on how YOU feel and how determined you are.

Bravo for Coming of Age
Dacing in the Wings stole my heart! The main character Sassy is someone little girls (and big girls) can identify with. I was seaching for a gift for my niece who is facing the challenges of growing up different. The support Sassy receives to pursue her dreams is encouraging and heart warming. The family unit is realistic and beleivable, with just a touch of magic. Allen really captures the essence of triumph. The illustrations by Kadir Nelson leap from the pages to colorize this this very orginal story. The artwork makes this story a keepsake worth having. The multi-cultural nature of the book makes it a treasure for all families bookshelves!

Beautiful Story
My 4-year old loves this because she is taking ballet. The illustrations from Kadir Nelson are masterful. My daughters now know his art work and relate it to the books they have.

My class never laughed so hard!
I'm a fifth grade elementary school teacher and work in a black neighborhood. Recently our theme for the week was the biography of the famous ballet star, Evelyn Cisneros.Unfortunately, our school library did not have any information on Cisneros at the time. Instead, our media specialist read this wonderful book by Debbie Allen of "FAME" fame. Well, let me tell you, my students never laughed so hard during a book. They just simply loved it.

Put-downs are a fact of life, especially (and unfortunately) in elementary school. I think the students really got the message loud and clear and in a fun and interesting, not preachy, way. As a class, we discussed how people are different and we need to accept others without making fun of them. It was also clear that we sound horrible when we tease and taunt each other, too. There were really great points of discussion above and beyond ballet and dancing.

Debbie Allen is truly talented and not just as a dancer! My students learned about the world of ballet, which was new to them. They were engaged while being read to and afterwards enjoyed talking and laughing about this book. I found it to be a tremendous teaching tool in that it opened up many topics of discussion that week and students connected to this book in an exciting way. It spoke to them in their own language and that's a difficult thing to do! My students can be hard to reach through books and yet Debbie Allen accomplished it with ease.

The pictures were a delight, very expressive. I will buy this book now and use it in my classroom every year. I strongly recommend this book as a teaching tool, in all neighborhoods. I hope Allen writes more for children soon.

Something to be proud of!
As a woman who is used to being the tallest female in the room, this book was a delight for me. It's clear to her father and I that our 3 year old daughter will be following in the footsteps(size 10 1/2) of her mother. We read this book now and then because it's never too soon to promote a positive self-image. I want my daughter to embrace her size and be proud of who she is. ... Read more

Book Description

Jenna, a contemporary Muscogee (Creek) girl in Oklahoma, wants to honor a family tradition by jingle dancing at the next powwow. But where will she find enough jingles for her dress? An unusual, warm family story, beautifully evoked in Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu's watercolor art.

Notable Children's Trade Books in the Field of Social Studies 2001, National Council for SS & Child. Book Council

Reviews (10)

Native children's literature by a Native author--at last!
Until very recently, there were no large press picture books about contemporary Native children written by Indian authors. For this reason, Jingle Dancer is particularly notable. The story of Jenna, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation living with her family in Oklahoma, is written by a Native author. Rather than focusing exclusively on Jenna's Indian identity, however, the book presents Jenna as an average American kid, living in suburbia, who calls on her Native sensibilities and her broad community of supportive females to overcome a problem as she tries to put together her regalia for the Jingle Dance. Readers who are not familiar with the customs presented here will learn much, but above all, they will learn that Indian children are alive, well, and living rich lives amongst them, a lesson infrequently taught, and rarely so pleasantly. Rich, bright, cheerful watercolor illustrations by husband-and-wife team Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu enhance the presentation and bring Jenna to life. A significantly informative Author's Note and Glossary make the book even more effective.

Excellent story for all -
What? No teepees or war paint? Bravo! Cynthia Leitich Smith's JINGLE DANCER is a refreshing story about a Muscogee-Ojibway girl wanting to participate in a powwow by performing a traditional dance. This contemporary picture book story is free of the stereotypes sometimes associated with Native American tales, and instead shows Jenna watching her grandma dance on a video tape, visiting a friend in a new duplex in the community, and talking with her lawyer aunt. The reader is also introduced to information about a traditional story, game, foods, and dance. Smith's lyrical narrative and captivating story makes this a perfect read-a-loud -- as my five-year-old daughter will attest to. As an Asian-American, I'm always thrilled to see contemporary stories with multicultural characters shown in real and positive ways.

Beautiful illustrations by Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu!

Jingle Dancer
Cynthia Leitich Smith's, JINGLE DANCER, is a delightful book. Ms. Smith weaves a lovely story of the strong female ties in Native Ameicans matriarchal societies. Smith celebrates the loving, sharing spirit of friends and families. The passages of Jenna dancing through her day from dawn to moonlight are pure poetry. Cornelius Van Wright's and Ying-Hwa Hu's bright lively illustration are a perfect match. Cynthia Leitich Smith's writing is to be applauded as a great addition to the world of children's books.

A beautiful story for any child
Cynthia Leitich Smith has penned a graceful, lyrical story in JINGLE DANCER. My son enjoys hearing about Jenna's quest to find jingles for her dress, and loves looking at the beautiful illustrations. It's one of the books we read frequently.

We've also purchased several copies of the book as baby shower gifts, and everyone has loved it. The high-quality writing and exceptional artwork make it a rare find. We can't wait for Ms. Smith's next book.

Jingle Dancer - An Enjoyable Story of a Native American Girl
Watching her own grandmother dance the traditional jingledance,Jenna hopes to carry on the proud tradition.

In order to makeher own dress "sing," however, Jenna will need four rows of jingles. There isn't enough time before the next powwow to mail- order the tin beads, but Jenna doesn't loose faith. A Muskogee Creek story about a bat that she is told by her Great Aunt Sis shows that no one is too little to make a difference.

Rising sunlight reached through a window pane and flashed against... what was it, hanging in Aunt Sis's bedroom? Jingles on a dress too long quiet. "May I borrow enough jingles to make a row? Jenna asked, not wanting to take so many that Aunt Sis's dress would lose its voice. "You may," Aunt Sis answered, rubbing her calves. "My legs don't work so good anymore. Will you dance for me?" "I will," said Jenna with a kiss on Aunt Sis's cheek. Now Jenna's dress needed three more rows.

With the assistance of those in her community who cannot dance at the powwow, Jenna finds enough spare jingles to make her dress sing. With patience and practice, her hope is fulfilled.

In JINGLE DANCER, Cynthia Leitich Smith honors the tradition of jingle dancing, a ritual of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, which has been celebrated for generations. Jenna is a delightful, ambitious child with great pride---a wonderful heroine for this picture book story. Not only does the author capture the feel of Native American heritage through the exposition and resolution of the story, but she adds to the mood by using the position of the sun in the sky to describe the passing of time within it. The author's note at the end of this picture book provides the fascinating background to this custom.

Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu's brilliant watercolor illustrations are the perfect medium in which to bring this endearing Native American story to life.

A reading of JINGLE DANCER is sure to inspire a jingle in the reader's heart.

Writers Moon reViews (WritersMoon@aol.com) P.O. Box 182, Nesconset, NY 11767-0182 Copyright (c) 2000 Lynne Remick LynnRemick@aol.com) Reprinted with permission from Lynne Remick and Fantasy, Folklore & Fairytales ... Read more

Book Description

There¹s flipping and flopping, splishing and splashing, wiggling and waggling down by the cool of the pool. Frog, Duck, Horse, Pig, and the rest of the gang dance and sing their way through this wacky, watery, wonderful story told with catchy, rhyming text and bold, vibrant illustrations.The fun is positively infectious, and you may just find yourself dancing and singing along with Frog and his frolicking friends.Children will delight in this rollicking farmyard romp ­ an adventure in musical activity. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Love this book!
My 2-year-old daughter LOVES this book. I often find her in her room reading to herself, saying, "Frog goes, "Weee!" Duck goes, 'Flap!" Down by the cool of the pool!" She reads it 100 times a day, and makes me read it at least three times, too. I highly recommend it

Our favorite
My 2 year old daughter LOVES this book. She has almost memorized it word for word and has made up hand motions to go with it. It is a lively, adorable rhyme and the colorful illustrations are wonderful.

Confessional and Premature Love
This is the parent's favorite of children's book to date. Keep this in mind though, the kid-to-be has only 5 books currently in his nascent library and the big thumbs up comes from two overly enthusiastic and gate jumping before the gun expectant parents.

That's right; we have been reading this book to the belly for the last week and absolutely love it. I can't speak for the life growing within, but the book has rhythm, bright colors, goofy animals, a lively story, and enough little details to keep readers enrapt studying the words, hoping and anticipating what comes next. The illustrations are a work of art with beautiful rich color. Each page has an animal at the periphery that will show up featured en-scene on the next page.

If the life that shows up in 3 months time doesn't absolutely love it, Mom and Dad will sneak off to a closed room and read it in joy and glee. ... Read more

Book Description

Sophie is so shy, she goes to the supermarket when it's empty. She would give anything to learn how to dance, but she doesn't dare sign up for lessons. So, she borrows a how-to book from the Book-Mobile. Soon she has learned all the right steps. And then magically...a dance partner appears at her front door. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

SOPHIE AND LOU is a truly heart-warming book.
My five-year-old daughter just received this book as a gift three days ago, and we've already read it at least 25 times. I'm not sick of it yet! We both love the illustrations (so many little details to enjoy; they really add to the story) and the gently humorous tone.

The main character is someone who children can identify with and root for. Her will to seek out joy in spite of her crippling shyness is inspirational.

This is a beautiful love story, and we always end it with a happy sigh. I'll want a copy of my own, even after my daughter grows up, just to read when I need a smile and a little heart-glow.

Sopie and Lou, a book to keep
I bought "Sophie and Lou" for my daughter when she was 5. Over the years I have sold most of the books I bought her (she is now 11), but "Sophie and Lou" remains a favorite. The illustrations are great, and the story is especialy appealing for a shy child who would like to join in. As with many children's book, it is appealing to adults as well, and I recently went looking for this book to give to an adult friend who has taken up ballroom dancing. ... Read more

Book Description

When Old Grandfather Winter disappears into his ice palace high in the mountains, Young Robin chirps her wake-up song to the Root Children deep underground. ³Wake up,² she sings, ³it¹s time for the masquerade!² Right away, the Root Children set to work sewing their flowering costumes and painting bugs with rainbows until they sparkle like jewels. Then they frolic out into the world in a joyous chorus of frolic and song all through Summer, until the frosty Autumn winds blow away the leaves and flowers. The Root Children return to their underground bed with gentle Mother Earth until Spring returns again. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

A treasure!
This is a beautiful book! The artwork in this book is among the best I've seen in a child's book. It's a wonderful version of a classic story & the words flow like poetry. It's a great starter book to introduce young children to the wheel of the year & the changing seasons.

The only flaw is the typeface is so artistic it is sometimes hard to read, just read slowly & savor each word.

You'll love this book, go ahead & buy 2 copies! You're going to want to share it with everyone you know!

I like it!
Being very familiar and in love with the 1902 version of this book, I didn't know what to make of this new version, at first. But it grows on you! I especially like the way Mother Earth is portrayed, not as a Grandmotherly figure, but a beautiful woman maybe in her early thirties - an image of fertility and fruitfulness. The illustrations are lush and a bit overdone in places, but they represent the bounty of the seasons well. The introduction of Aunt Spring, Cousin Summer, Uncle Fall and Old Man Winter is different than the original, but not offensive or upsetting even to a die-hard fan, like me. The text is shorter and, for that reason, may appeal to younger children who can't sit through Sibylle von Olfers' word-ier original story. Overall, when I compare the two, the 1902 original has a certain charm that is hard to deny. Von Olfers' illustrations are simple and the text is straightforward, although a bit wordy. This new remake is beautifully done and has a different feel altogether: it's lush, full of life, color and movement. Audrey Wood has taken a risk to remake such a beloved classic, but I believe she made a good effort and successfully made it her own. I can't say it's better than the original, but I like it!

Exploring the Four Seasons
This elegantly crafted book is a pure delight! The light-hearted text and the beautiful evocative oil paintings that illustrate the story lead us on a whimsical journey through the changing seasons. We are re-introduced to delightful characters from an old German story about birth and rebirth and treated to the colorful adventures of the Root Children as they awaken in Spring and begin painting the bugs and making lovely flower costumes. We also meet Old Grandfather Winter, Mother Earth, Kind Aunt Spring, Jolly Cousin Summer, and Studious Uncle Fall. The joyous adventures of the Root Children as they meet their older relatives and a host of woodland creatures out in the world are brimming with color and fun. The multi-racial children sport colorful butterfly wings and flower garlands as they frisk about the abundant earth revelling in Nature. The expressions and body language of real children are reflected in these lovely illustrations. The double page spreads draw one in to the festivities and are complimented by a beautiful, uncharacteristic font style for added ambiance. The dust jacket is a smooth silvery paper with a glossy full color picture of the Root Children and a lovely tangle of budding trees. The endpapers are a silvery blue with the same lovely trees and the covers of the book itself are a simulated embossed soft brown leather with a picture of a little Root Child girl holding a lighted candle, oak leaves in her hair. No detail was spared in this lovely book and it is sure to become a beloved treasure. ... Read more

Book Description

This beloved picture book is celebrating its twentieth birthday with a new edition, completely reillustrated in full color by the author. In this wise, eloquent story with the timeless resonance of a folk tale, an orphan boy named Joseph receives a pair of silver shoes and with them the power to dance joy and hope into the lives of others. Joseph dances his way through the world until it is time to pass the shoes-and the dancing man's destiny-to another boy. The text is ably complemented by radiant pastel drawings, bringing this fable about the rejuvenating power of art to a new generation of young readers. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A beautiful story about not letting go of your dreams
This is a story of a little boy who refused to let go of his dreams. He dreamed of dancing across the land, telling stories with his dances, making people smile.

This book danced it's way into our hearts. It's one of those "makes you feel good" books. My 4-year old daughter loves it. The illustrations and wonderful and the story is one you can read time and again.

luminous color
A new edition of the 1978 book brings this somber, wordy, story back to life with large, lush, color pastels. The story, about a boy who is given magic shoes, which take him on a dancing journey, may not have tremendous child appeal, but the luminous color will attract new readers. ... Read more

Book Description

A Ballet Company dances ... across the pages of this sparkling picture book, inviting you behind the scenes and illuminating ballet terms from A to Z.

A Ballet Company dances ... for the very youngest of dancers as well as for ballet fans of all ages.

Reviews (2)

Perfect for Aspiring Dancers of All Ages
Author illustrator Rachel Isadora's Ballet ABC book is as magically elegant as the dance itself. Each letter introduces a ballet term. Each drawing illuminates the term in graceful pastels. Isadora once studied at the School of Ballet and danced with the Boston Ballet. Her passion for the dance lives on in her books. Don't miss the glossary after letter Z for Zipper: it helps the reader pronounce unfamiliar phrases and elaborates on word origins. For example, P for Pas de chat (pah duh SHAH) is a French phrase meaning "step of the cat." T for Tutu, a costume made of several layers of tulle, was originally an underskirt worn under heavier fabric. My preschool daughter adores this book, along with Ballerina! by Peter Sis. On Your Toes will surely win applause from your own aspiring dancer.

Beautiful Book!
This is a beautiful book! The illustrations are just gorgeous! I was concerned that it wasn't going to be muticultural but it was! The pics are too cute and the alphabet goes through smoothly and when they get to letters like Q, X and Z they clevery have appropriate words. I can't wait to get into the classroom with this one. ... Read more

Book Description

Stories to go! Children love to listen to stories. Now their favorite Dorling Kindersley children's books are available in convenient book--and--tape packages that are perfect for the car or anywhere. With more than 60 minutes of audio on each tape, these packages will be favorites of children and parents alike. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great book!
This is a lovely little book with great pictures which has really helped my daughter learn moves and draw them. The stories are well written and it's great that a currently popular ballet dancer helped with it, not one retiring and probably never heard from again. I reccomend this book for people who like ballet and the stories, it a great book to read to children!

The Five Classic Ballets - An Introduction
This is a perfect introduction for the young, serious balletstudent to THE classic ballets: The Sleeping Beauty, Giselle, Coppelia, Swan Lake and The Nutcracker. It tells the story(s) AS DANCED, an important difference for a student of dance. Ms. Bussell's personal comments and pictures ignite a young dancer's dreams of a professional career. My daughter just turned ten and the detail was appropriate for her reading and interest level. Although the read-along-feature makes it look like it's for younger readers, I think ten is the youngest age I'd recommend unless you have an EXCEPTIONAL reader who also LOVES ballet. This review is based on the book. I haven't had a chance to listen to the audio yet; it's available on cassette or CD. Amazon's price was the best... ... Read more