Dance

School Library Journal

Gr 4-6-Nicely designed series entries with large, clear, full-color photographs and uncluttered texts. Simple outline maps show the area of the world being discussed in each chapter. The books begin with an introduction to the topic, then go continent by continent discussing the traditions of each region. Covering so many different cultures in such brief titles has advantages and disadvantages. Children can quickly see the universality of some experiences: people everywhere play games and dance and often the activities are similar even when the people themselves are very different. However, the broad scope necessitates cursory treatment and it is often difficult to remember which practice went with which culture. Hall provides an overview of games from ancient times through modern computer software. These activities are explored primarily as entertainment, but the roles of game playing in coming-of-age ceremonies and as training for battle are also discussed. Dance would more appropriately be called Folk Dance. It covers dance history up to the present, but does not include ballet, modern dance, or the contemporary dancing found in nightclubs. The religious significance of many dances is mentioned, as is its importance in community life, festivals, theater, and as a form of communication. Useful additions, particularly where multicultural studies are emphasized or for art, music, or dance teachers interested in exposing children to various forms.-Lucinda Snyder Whitehurst, St. Christopher's School, Richmond, VA