Daryl and the Dancing Dolls (Amazon Paperback available)

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Daryl is a truck driver who has been in the profession for several years. Though the job is rewarding in some ways, Daryl recognizes that most days are more or less the same. So when Daryl is offered a special truck and an unknown route, Daryl is excited about the prospect of going somewhere new. On the way, a magical moment transforms Daryl’s cargo, and when the truck’s rear hatch accidentally falls open, Daryl’s day becomes anything but ordinary. This newest installment in the Once Upon a Dance canon is one that works especially well in dance and movement classes. Like the others in the series, this book is separated into three parts: the narrative, the full-page illustrations, and helpful written and photographic movement suggestions. Due to the length and complexity of the narrative, this book is best suited to older elementary school-aged readers, especially those who enjoy exploring the myriad ways their bodies can move. Colorful, digitally rendered illustrations support the text by enhancing comprehension, and these will particularly appeal to the younger children reading this book. Ultimately, this book is focused primarily on what happens to the dolls themselves along this incredible journey; there is not much attention given to the ultimate resolution for Daryl or the other toys in the truck. Despite this, the book remains enjoyable because it offers many movement opportunities for young children and several means of encouraging the physical manifestation of imaginative play. This lighthearted and action-centered story is a good fit for elementary school-aged readers with a passion for dance and exploratory movement.

—Mary Lanni, Indepentdent/Librarian Reviewer