Emily Dahowski- The Dancing Zok

The Dancing Zok written by Jack Spindler encourages children to think outside of the box when attempting to learn new concepts.  The author starts of the book with a note to the reader to read the book through twice.  Once to follow the rhythm and sing song tone of the book and again to recognize numbers on the bottom of the page.  This demonstrates the music and other core subjects can be taught at the same time to benefit children of a young age.  The story is very easy to follow as well.  It starts off with a farmer going to check on his animals in the farm but instead hears music coming from inside.  When he opens up the door he is shocked to see all of the animals listening to music and dancing.  The most incredible creature to dance was the Zok.  The Zok amazed all the other animals with its knowledge of dances.  The illustrations paired with the story work well together to teach children animals, counting, and colors at a very young age.  I would use this book in an elementary general music class after speaking with the classes teacher to see what the students have been learning in class.