Whether the lively pictures depict the action from straight on, from the side, from above, or from below, children will see characters dancing the hokey pokey with full-bodied involvement and having a grand time. Brightly colored and unabashedly cheerful, this picture-book version of a song popular since the late 1900s is bound to get an enthusiasic response. Young readers will undoubtedly take note of the many visual details--from the characters' clothes, hairstyles, and shoes to the humorous variety of animals that gradually join the energetic group (some to dance, others to look for dinner). Although they may not notice the girl who resembles her French poodles or the hungry cats eyeing pet fish, they will surely find a character who looks just like they do. Words and music are included, as is a brief background note regarding the song and the dance. Karen Morgan