Reviews for A dictionary of dance
School Library Journal
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K-Gr 3-From "Arabesque" to "Zones," this is a very broad overview of the subject. The defined words vary a great deal in complexity. Some of the more sophisticated ones include "Notation" and "Improvisation." "Energetic" and "Yearn" are among the more generic terms. Specific movements ("Ouvert") and specific styles, such as "Quickstep" and "Break dancing" are briefly explained. The dynamic and colorful illustrations have real child appeal with line-drawn characters happily and enthusiastically interpreting the words. This potpourri of aspects of dance is imaginatively done, and those who already have an interest in the subject may be fascinated.-Carol Schene, formerly at Taunton Public Schools, MA (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
Kirkus
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This introductory exploration of the world of dance offers one term, step or type of dance for each letter of the alphabet, from an arabesque to zones of the body. Each page shows the featured term in a large, darker font followed by phonetic pronunciation and a short definition. Charming illustrations in mixed-media collage include scraps of written text, music and wallpaper integrated into depictions of dancing children with long, skinny limbs and simply drawn faces that convey an earnest simplicity. Though the selection of terms is wildly wide-ranging, overall the choice of vocabulary gives a glimpse of the dance world, including different kinds of dance, some French ballet terms, a few musical terms and some stage terms. The dancing children are of all ethnicities, and boys are shown as dancers as well. Ethnic dances are represented with the Chinese dragon dance, the hula and folk dances. Though this is a beginning taste of a complex subject, it will serve well as a first look at dance for preschoolers. (Picture book. 2-4) Copyright ŠKirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Publishers Weekly
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Liz Murphy's (ABC Doctor) new ABC book, A Dictionary of Dance, offers youngsters dance terms, pronunciation keys and definitions, one for each letter of the alphabet. Little dancers will learn words like "arabesque," "leotard," "recital" and more, giving them a basic vocabulary to discuss the dance world. (Blue Apple [Chronicle, dist.], $15.95 32p ages 4-8 ISBN 9781-59354-613-7; Sept.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
