Alpha

Discover the NATO phonetic alphabet—and find layers of connection in every letter—in a stunning abecedarian from celebrated artist Isabelle Arsenault.

Alpha, Bravo, Charlie . . . Since 1956, whenever time and clarity are of the essence, everyone from firefighters to air traffic controllers has spelled out messages using the NATO phonetic alphabet. Now, with equal precision—infused with a singular wit and whimsy—award-winning author-illustrator Isabelle Arsenault interprets this internationally recognized code and makes it her own. From the elegant Tangoto the enigmatic Echo, from the humorous Kilo to the haunting Romeo and Juliet, the striking art in this remarkable ABC book elicits laughter and curiosity, calls up endless associations, and will draw the viewer back again and again.For kids who may have heard the letters used in movies or on TV, learning this code alphabet could turn into a game.
—Kirkus Reviews

Fine artwork and design sense give this creation quiet allure.
—Publishers Weekly

...beautifully designed and lovingly illustrated in Arsenault’s signature retro style..."
—School Library Journal

Alpha is a smart, nice-looking, and useful take on the classic children’s abecedarian.
—Words on the Word (blog)

This would be an engaging selection for a teacher or librarian to share with intermediate grade students in a whole-group setting.
—School Library ConnectionIsabelle Arsenault is the acclaimed illustrator of Jane, the Fox, and Me, winner of the Governor General's Award for Children's Illustration, and numerous other picture books. She lives in Quebec.