Rendered in a style reminiscent of Graeme Base, spiffy animals gather, in alphabetical order, for a dance competition (less Dancing with the Stars
than Dancing with the Jaguars
). Rycroft's lavish pencil, watercolor, and gouacheillustrations give the animals glittering ballroom pizzazz, and readers can also locate missing musical instruments, hidden (by monkeys) throughout. On a spread featuring “F” and “G,” two flamingos strut their stuff (“When flamingos dance flamenco,/ Judges have to block their ears”), while “[g]roovy goats” (one strongly resembles Austin Powers) go-go dance (“No one's laughed as much in years”). The eye-popping visuals, breezy alliterative verse, and interactive component form an enchanting introduction to music, animals, and dancing. Ages 4–8. (Apr.)
