Laura Anne Passarello, the Canadian illustrator of "Dances of the World," has captured the unique aspects of traditional dance across many of the diverse cultures of the world. Dance has been an important form of cultural expression throughout human history. Laura Anne's 36 illustrations make it possible to take a virtual journey spanning the Americas, the Caribbean Islands, Europe, Asia and the islands of the Pacific Ocean. In addition to well-known dances such as France's can can and Argentina's tango, you'll find exotic dances such as odissi of India and the aspara of Cambodia. And, the dancers' festive costumes represent invitations for the application of abundant color.