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LEAPING LUMBERJACKS by Sarah MacElroy

LEAPING LUMBERJACKS

by Sarah MacElroy illustrated by Terie Beth Dillard

Pub Date: Oct. 1st, 2021
ISBN: 978-1-989819-22-7
Publisher: Golden Brick Road Publishing House

A boy ventures into the woods and witnesses the magical power of dance in this picture book.

While wandering in a forest, a youngster encounters “a grizzly bear dancing nimbly,” a “red fox twirling around a tree,” and a “bison teaching ballet” to other woodland creatures. The boy is introduced to both common animals (such as squirrels and raccoons) and rarely spotted ones (bighorn sheep, porcupines, and others), and he learns terms and movements associated with classical ballet, such as relevésand Pas de bourrées.” Soon, all the animals join a collective dance, and soon, “leaping lumberjacks” add some moves of their own. The little boy acknowledges that one can be both “strong and brave, and like ballet too.” Debut author MacElroy offers a quaint picture book that questions gender stereotypes via artful dance instruction. She indicates an essential harmony that people and animals share and hints that music has the ability to bring people together. The layout of the text is consistent throughout, resulting in a lovely flow that’s easy to follow. The subtle rhymes create an engaging story, while Dillard’s illustrations will capture readers with their detail and vibrant hues.

An inspiring debut that highlights the importance of individuality and courage.