DIEZ DEDITOS/TEN LITTLE FINGERS
and Other Play Rhymes and Action Songs from Latin America
edited by Jose-Luis Orozco & illustrated by Elisa Kleven
A nifty compilation of Latin American songs and finger rhymes, some of them original, some recalled from Orozco's Mexican childhood, and some collected during tours in Latin America and Spain. The pieces are presented with musical notations, background notes, Spanish/English lyrics, and small pictographs guiding young performers through the fun and simple actions required. Kleven's bright, cheerful, child-pleasing illustrations are full of frolicsome details for individual readers to pore over, but the activities work in small family circles or large groups. A subject index displays a wide range of topics: Here are participation pieces from greetings to farewells; learn-through-play concepts about body parts, the world of work, Spanish vowel sounds, and more; and pieces that promote self-esteem and friendship. The book is a sprightly, upbeat celebration. (Anthology. 2-6)