That Dancin’ Dolly
Written and Illustrated by Jennifer J. Merz
Hardcover ISBN # 0-525-47214-2
Dutton Children's Books
An imprint of Penguin Random House
That Dancin’ Dolly was inspired by an old-time song my mother sang to me when I was very little. The happy memory of our singing and dancing was the basis of my first picture book. That Dancin’ Dolly received the prestigious CHILDREN’S CHOICE AWARD, presented by the International Reading Association/Children’s Book Council.
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Set to the familiar toe-tapper, “Buffalo Gals,” the text of this tale–adapted from the 1940s song lyrics to the same tune, “Dance With a Dolly (With a Hole in her Stockin’)”– inspires Merz to introduce a girl and her Raggedy Ann lookalike companion in a toe-stompin’ debut… While they swing, shirts and socks sway on the clothesline and the fibrous, multihued sky turns to rosy shades of sunset. For those who wish to join in, the sheet music can be found on the last page. Merz blithely offers a day of knees “a-knockin’" and toes “a-rockin’.”
- Publishers Weekly
Crafted with torn-and-cut paper, lace and other trims, the detailed double-page collages are a delight to examine. The illustrations exude energy... Lyrics and music are appended, ensuring that the old tune will be passed on to the next generation. This charming offering will be well received by groups or during one-to-one sharing.
– School Library Journal
“So, Jenn, last night at bedtime 4 3/4 year old Finn was allowed to choose three books to be read. He chose Playground Day, Dancin’ Dolly, and Berenstain Bears at the Aquarium. —And I was told I needed to sing Dancin’ Dolly!” —A Proud and Happy Grandma