A very cute book that could be used to introduce acceptance to a group of children. A simple and funny story that most children would find enjoyable.

When an over-sized alligator shows up at Miss Iraina's ballet class, teacher and pupils accept her presence, and work around some of the concerns it raises, from an out-of-control tail to issues of what she will eat when she gets hungry. Dubbing the newcomer Tanya, the class take their new peer to heart, and eventually join with Miss Iraina in planning a special dance - Queen of the Swamp - in which this eusuchian dancer can shine. All goes well until after the day of the recital, when Tanya disappears. Is it the end of the dancing alligator, or is something else afoot...?

Having greatly enjoyed author/illustrator Andrea Zuill's picture-book debut, the amusing Wolf Camp, I fully expected to find Dance Is for Everyone entertaining, and I was not disappointed! The narrative is sweet and heartwarming, showing Miss Iraina and the children working to include their eusuchian friend, rather than retreating from her in fear, because she is different from them. The artwork is immensely expressive, and very droll - I enjoyed Tanya's enthusiasm, as well as the watchful side-eyes the children give her at first, as they all practice together - capturing the humor of the story quite nicely. The picture-book world already includes ballerina mice, dancing zombies and vampires, why not alligators? Recommended to all young ballet enthusiasts! ( )

Fun alligator story!! ( )