Tip-Tap Pop

PreS-Gr 1—Emma has been dancing with her grandpa since she was a baby. They make clickety-clack, tip-tapping noises with their feet wherever they go and use hats and canes in their impromptu performances. The role of teacher switches to Emma, though, after her sixth birthday, as it has become difficult for Pop to remember things, and she is determined to find a way to keep their dance routines going. She learns the truth about his memory loss through a conversation with her grandma. "'His feet remember,' Emma explained softly. 'They remember today.' Gram smiled, reaching one hand to Pop and the other to Emma. 'And maybe we can help them remember tomorrow.'" Short text and attention-grabbing words combine with colorful gouache and pencil illustrations. The passage of time is reflected through birthday cakes and changing appearances. Emma's pink dresses stand out against the greens and blues on the pages, as does a lovable pup that is never far from her side or Pop's. With Docampo's inclusion of a gramophone, bowties, and suspenders, Tip-Tap Pop has a nostalgic feel and leisurely pace. A first purchase.—Tanya Boudreau, Cold Lake Public Library, AB, Canada