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-- School Library Journal, 07/01/2006

Language Arts

Gr 4-7–Charlie Bone is off on another action-packed adventure in this recording of Jenny Nimmo’s fourth book (Orchard Books, 2005) in the Children of the Red King series. Listeners will need to be familiar with the previous books in the series in order to follow the extended cast of characters and their endowments—magical gifts that are bestowed upon descendents of the Red King—or they will become lost in the quickly moving plot. Charlie begins his second year at Bloor Academy with a bang, receiving detention his very first morning back at school. A literally magnetic new student, a mystical white horse, an ethereal woman with a gift for plants, and young Billy Raven, who can talk to animals, each play a substantial part while Charlie is swept up into a mystery revolving around the Castle of Mirrors during his ongoing search for his missing father. Subtle humor brings a lighter touch into the convoluted and shifting loyalties among the students and instructors at Bloor. Actor Simon Russell Beale reads with aplomb and grace, giving each character, whether man or beast, a distinct voice that makes the many players come to life. A good purchase for both school and public libraries where the series is popular.–Charli Osborne, Oxford Public Library, MI

K-Gr 4–Susan Stevens Crummel and Dorothy Donohue have adapted an Aesop’s fable for their book (Marshall Cavendish, 2004), changing the main characters from mice to dogs. In addition, they’ve turned the dogs into artists who mirror the friendship between Vincent van Gogh and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Vincent van Dog is from the country and Henri T. LaPooch is a city dweller. They become friends in art class, and correspond afterwards. However, when each visits the other they discover that they prefer their own homes. This does not preclude their friendship, however, so “vive la differénce!” Set in France, the book includes some French words and expressions, with their English translations at the bottom of each page. Asa Dorfman and Randye Kaye read the story with expression, providing different voices for each character. Original background music augments the text. As the story is read, listeners can entertain themselves by finding artwork representative of the two post-impressionist masters featured in the story within Dorothy Donohue’s detailed and beautifully-made collage illustrations. Additional information about both artists is included at the end. Children can listen to the recording with or without page-turn signals. This is a nicely-done production with good sound quality and excellent pacing. It makes the story come to life and will be enjoyed by young audiences.–Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

PreS-Gr 3–Farm terrier, Murphy-Stop-That, shares a day in his life in this fun adaptation of Alice Provensen’s picture book (S & S, 2003). Narrator Jason Harris gives Murphy a scrappy personality with an eager demeanor and often breathless voice. The first-person account follows what appears to be an ordinary day in the life of Murphy which turns out to be filled with scads of mischief, lots of food, and even an unwelcome trip to the vet. Provensen illustrates Murphy’s day with unusual vocabulary words such as “whirring,” “snivel,” and “lolling.” However, sensitive parents might also be wary of an abundance of the word “dumb” in the text. The narration is brought to life with sound effects and upbeat background music. One side of the recording has page-turn signals.–Jennifer Verbrugge, Dakota County Library, Burnhaven branch, Burnsville, MN

Gr 6-9–Julius Lester’s moving historical novel (Jump at the Sun, 2005) becomes a magnificent tapestry when performed in this full-cast recording. Based upon actual historical characters Pierce Butler and his ex-wife Fanny Kemble, the story begins during “The Weeping Time,” the largest slave auction that was held in Georgia in 1859. In a rain “as hard as regret,” that infamous event saw hundreds of families, marriages, and lovers torn apart as slave owner and plantation master Pierce Butler sold hundreds of slaves to pay off his gambling debts. “This ain’t rain. This is God’s tears” one slave intones as the auction begins. Lester’s lyrical dialogue performed by different voices creates a powerful statement on the blinding injustice and cruelty of slavery. Narrator Dion Graham exudes a quiet intensity as slaves, owners, abolitionists, and children of slave and slave-master families tell their stories. Listeners will absorb the aching reality of slave life and get a sense of the monumental injustice of many lives sacrificed to support a way of life for a privileged few. Lester’s literary device of using interludes in which characters reflect on their lives since the auction adds dimension and substance to this outstanding production. Children may be jarred by the frequent use of the word “nigger.” Used in this historical context, the language helps to illustrate how people perceived African Americans. For older listeners, sections of the novel could be used for reader’s theater.–Celeste Steward, Alameda County Library, Fremont, CA

Gr 3-6–This collection of six American Girl stories by Valerie Tripp—Meet Felicity; Felicity Learns a Lesson; Felicity’s Surprise: A Christmas Story; Happy Birthday, Felicity; Felicity Saves the Day; and Changes for Felicity (American Girl, 1991-92) features 10-year-old Felicity who lives in Williamsburg, VA, during the colonial period. In each story, Felicity confronts all of the usual challenges of growing up—education, siblings, and friendship issues—as well as issues faced prior to the Revolutionary War, such as the tax on tea and loyalty to the King of England. Each story is on a separate tape. A male narrator introduces each story and provides a summary. Carrie Hitchcock clearly narrates each story. Purchase where the series is popular.–Cynthia Grabke, Thayer Public Library, Braintree, MA

Gr 3-5–Fantasy lovers will appreciate this audio version of the tale by Julia Donaldson (Holt, 2005). The giant girl, Jumbeelia, is so infatuated with the tale of tiny humans (iggly plops), that she grows a beanstalk (bimplestonk) to climb down to collect her own set. These turn out to be the collector Colette, the adventurous Stephen, and the baby Poppy Jones. The family is tortured when Jumbeelia’s mean brother discovers them. But Jumbeelia is able to work trades to get Poppy, then Colette back, and Stephen is able to hide out under the giants’ backyard shed. After several adventures and narrow escapes, the family reunites and, using their collective ingenuity, they are able to return home. At the conclusion of the tale, the giants and the Joneses have acquired a growing appreciation of each other’s humanity, and a strengthened bond between all of the siblings. A dictionary of the “Groil” language spoken by the giants is part of the book but lacking in the audio version. However, narrator Patricia Conolly’s clear pronunciation makes the giants’ language easily understandable and meaning is clear in context. Her energetic reading serves this exciting adventure well.–Cynthia Grabke, Thayer Public Library, Braintree, MA

Gr 5-8–Three tales of the supernatural are rejuvenated in this spellbinding performance of Newbery Medalist Paul Fleischman’s 1982 novel that is now back in print (Candlewick, 2006). The voices of actors Paul Michael, Susan Denaker, and Lincoln Hoppe provide a cushioning effect for these eerie stories about the secret lives of statues. Hoppe nails the youthful voice of a love-struck boy in “Saint Crispin’s Follower,” and Denaker’s narration of “The Binnacle Boy” gently introduces listeners to the hidden knowledge of a shipboard statue. Michael has an uncanny ability to dramatically change his voice and switch easily between accents. He presents an especially compelling performance as a sculptor and his model in the final story, “The Man of Influence.” The rich and mysterious lives of graven images are detailed further in the production’s closing remarks as Fleischman divulges what inspired him to write his short stories. Older readers who have moved beyond Alvin Schwartz’s Scary Stories will find more than enough spooky thrills in this fascinating audio production.–Celeste Steward, Alameda County Library, Fremont, CA

Gr 4-7–In 1976 during a languid Georgia summer, fourth grade best friends, fearful Gabe, who is white, and strong-willed Frita, who is African American, set out to face their individual fears together in this novel by K. L. Going (Putnam, 2005). Gabe is afraid of moving up to the fifth grade where he will be one of the smallest children and easily preyed upon by the bullies. The novel confronts racism, the bonds of friendship, and the importance of family. Robert Keefe narrates with a dry, humorous, yet upbeat tone, making for a relaxing ambiance reflecting the setting of a summer’s day. However, he doesn’t create distinctive voices for the characters, adding only a very subtle southern lilt for Frita and her family. This audiobook doesn’t enhance the print version, but does offer a variation for those who prefer to hear a good story.–Tina Hudak, St. Albans School for Boys, Washington, DC

Gr 3-6–Edward Tulane, a china rabbit, is the main character in this thoughtful tale by Kate DiCamillo (Candlewick, 2006). Edward is dearly loved by a young girl named Abilene. One day he is lost over the side of a boat. His journey leads him to a older couple who dress him like a girl rabbit, a hobo and his dog, a young girl and her brother and, finally, to a doll shop. Along the way, Edward learns to love the people he encounters. He also learns that family members can be cruel to one another; that hobos have family that they love dearly and don’t want to forget; that no matter how much you love someone, she may still die; and that no matter what happens in life, never give up on love. Tony Award-winner Judith Ivey infuses each character that Edward encounters with a unique accent and aura, and accurately portrays their emotions. A beautifully crafted telling.–Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

Gr 4-6–Georgia Byng brings the audience another fantastical tale ((HarperCollins, 2005) of adventure and excitement in the life of 11-year-old Molly Moon and her gentle pug, Petula. In previous episodes, Molly discovered that she was not an orphan and was reunited with her parents. Molly has also refined her hypnotic skills. In this adventure, Molly experiences time travel to 19th-century India and encounters previous incarnations of herself. She also must once again face her nemesis, the evil maharaja, as she seeks to save her beloved pug. Narrator Clare Higgins easily differentiates the voices of the characters, and distinguishes between each of Molly’s previous lives. These adventures will have a familiar ring for fans of Lemony Snicket’s Baudelaire orphans and their nemesis, Uncle Olaf. The engaging plot of this delightful addition to the series will entice youngsters.–Joyce Rice, Crestwood Middle School, Royal Palm Beach, FL

Gr 3-6–In this story by British author Mary Hooper, Amber and her mum move to a new neighborhood. Amber is attending a new school and she wants nothing more than to hide the fact that the pair are witches. This turns out to be a bit of a challenge because her mum is set on playing a very active part in her life and doesn’t do much to conceal her powers. Amber makes a new friend, Georgie, but manages to get on the bad side of the popular clique at school. When Georgie brags erroneously that she can get the most popular soccer player in the country to come to their school fete, Amber must decide whether or not to save her friend’s reputation by using her powers to make good on Georgie’s claim. Actress Jennifer Bryce perfectly captures the angst and embarrassment that Amber’s mother unwittingly causes her by trying to be a part of her life. Listeners will understand the Briticisms in context. A true delight for listeners in school and public libraries.–Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

Gr 4-6–In Jeanne Birdsall’s humorous novel (Knopf, 2005), four motherless sisters—Rosalind, 12, Skye, 11, Jane, 10, and Batty, 4—their absentminded professor dad, and the family dog share a summer retreat on the Massachusetts estate of Arundel. Owned by the frosty Mrs. Tifton and her lonely son, Jeffrey, Arundel’s pretentious mistress treats the oddly-matched Penderwick sisters and their doting father as social misfits. Feisty Skye and sensitive Jeffrey become best friends, drawing the reluctant Mrs. Tifton and the entire Penderwick clan into a series of hilarious misadventures, including runaway pets, an encounter with a bull, and a first crush. The sisters are determined to help Jeffrey escape being sent to the Pencey Military Academy, “Where boys become men and men become soldiers.” Susan Denaker’s gentle narration of this 2005 National Book Award winner perfectly captures the subtle humor and charm of each character. Fans of Sydney Taylor’s All-of-a-Kind Family or Maud Hart’s Betsy-Tacy novels will love this updated version of a comfortable childhood adventure. Just the ticket for an extended family car trip.–Celeste Steward, Alameda County Library, Fremont, CA

Gr 6-9–When 12-year-old Mog, a printer’s devil (apprentice), innocently stumbles on a bit of thievery taking place on the dirty and crowded London docks, his insatiable curiosity leads him into increasingly deeper danger, mystery, and confusion. With the help of a new friend, who bears an uncanny physical resemblance to him, Mog’s journey carries him back into his own mysterious past as he struggles to discover the secret cargo of the Sun of Calcutta. Fans of Charles Dickens’s novels will be drawn to Paul Bajoria’s tale (Little Brown, 2005), with its complicated and quickly changing plot filled with eccentric characters and evil doings. Katherine Kellgren does a superb job of narrating the sights, smells, and feel of Victorian London, and her different characterizations help listeners keep track of the convoluted story. The vague ending leaves room for a planned sequel.–Cindy Lombardo, Tuscarawas County Public Library, New Philadelphia, OH

Gr 6-8–Allan Corduner does a masterful job of narrating the audio version of the fourth book (Scholastic, 2006) in Garth Nix’s Keys to the Kingdom series. Two parallel stories keep the action moving, as Arthur Penhaligon, disguised as a Piper’s child named Ray Green, is compelled to join other denizens of the House in Sir Thursday’s army, now fighting a large contingent of Nithlings, who are unexpectedly clever and numerous. Meanwhile, his friend Leaf is back in Arthur’s real world, trying to retrieve a piece of cloth that has allowed someone to create a duplicate Arthur, known as the Skinless Boy, who is infecting all the mortals with a sort of mold that allows him to control their minds. There are many characters, but Corduner creates a unique voice for each of them. His pace is perfect, quickening as the story gets more intense in the later chapters. This is an exciting fantasy/adventure story in its own right, but will be appreciated most by those who have read or listened to previous volumes.–Sarah Flowers, Santa Clara County Library, CA

PreS-2–This read-along version of the book written and illustrated by Pat Hutchins (Greenwillow, 2003) is simply charming. It is the cumulative story of a young girl explaining her relationship to various members of her family—mother, siblings, stepfather, cousins, aunts and uncles, and grandparents—as they arrive for her birthday party. Each additional person leads the girl to review all the relationships. The young child is pleased that “It’s nice to be so many things when there’s only ONE OF ME!” Background instrumental music and faint sound effects fade in during each review and out when a new relationship is revealed. Suzanne Toren reads expressively with the wonder of a young child discovering new relationships, yet at a pace slow enough to allow time for listeners to read along and enjoy the book’s vibrant illustrations. One side of the audio contains page-turn signals. A great choice for family story times.–Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

Gr 5-8–Enter a magical Venice where stone lions fly, mermaids swim the canals, and tradesmen create miraculous cloth and magic mirrors in this novel by Kai Meyer (Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2005). Venice is under siege by the Egyptian army and is protected by the Flowing Queen, a magical force that flows through the canals. Two orphan girls, Merle and Junipa, are apprenticed to the mirror maker, Arcimboldo. Junipa is blind but Arcimboldo quickly replaces her eyes with magic mirrors that allow her to see the world around her. Merle, the more adventurous of the two, befriends Serafin, an apprentice to the dressmaker and a former thief. When the girls overhear a plot to capture the Flowing Queen, they become embroiled in a scheme to control Venice. Characters are well defined and Toby Longworth’s smooth narration brings each individual to life. His interpretation of an emissary from hell who attempts to form a pact with the Venetians is especially chilling. While the plot suffers from the ubiquitous need to create a trilogy, and ends in an abrupt and unsatisfying manner that will either annoy or intrigue readers, fantasy fans who persevere will be rewarded.–Tricia Melgaard, Centennial Middle School, Broken Arrow, OK

Literature

Gr 8 Up–Walter Dean Myers expertly explores the realities of life for Harlem teens in his latest novel (HarperCollins, 2005). Guns, gangs, and funerals are crowding 15-year-old Jesse. While he’s trying to do his artwork and steer clear of violence, his friend Rise has dropped plans for college and started dealing drugs. Fortunately, Jesse’s musician friend CJ is also trying to avoid the turf wars that rule their streets, but both young men are caught between strict, but loving parents and the need to be respected by their peers. Despite the intervention of a neighborhood police officer and Jesse’s efforts to reconnect with his friend by doing a cartoon version of his life, Rise is in too deep. Rise’s involvement in an ambush that kills three teens leads to his own fatal shooting, and he dies in Jesse’s arms. JD Jackson’s narration is smooth and cool when the homeboys are talking, and it’s equally right on when Jesse’s parents are angry and little old ladies are mourning. With a voice clearly recognizable on the street and an understanding of the pressures that confront urban adolescents, this novel paints a vivid picture and provides insights into universal teen conflicts. This National Book Award nominee should be available in all high school and public libraries.–Barbara Wysocki, Cora J. Belden Library, Rocky Hill, CT

Gr 7 Up–Leo, a high school senior and “Mr. Republican,” has received a scholarship to Harvard. However, after being accused of helping another student during a test, he looses the financial assistance which he must have to enroll. Although he was talking, he was not giving answers to the other student and stands up for himself. At about the same time, he learns that his biological father is really King Maggot, the leader of a popular punk rock band. Leo manages to get a job as a roadie with the band hoping to get King to pay his college tuition. That summer, he learns who his real friends are and much more about himself. Billy Hammond becomes Leo, reading the first person narrative in the novel by Gordon Korman (Hyperion, 2006) at a lively pace and with plenty of emotion. He employs some voice changes to reflect the other characters. Teens will relate to the informal dialogue and enjoy eavesdropping on Leo as he reflects. Sound effects play a key role in this recording and are sure to please listeners. Short interludes of punk music are played frequently. There are noises of crowds, emails are read with an echo, and phone conversations sound realistic. An excellent choice.–Claudia Moore, W.T. Woodson High School, Fairfax, VA

Gr 8 Up–Graham Salisbury’s novel (Wendy Lamb Books, 2005) is brought to life by narrator Robert Ramirez. The story, a companion to Salisbury’s earlier Under the Blood-Red Sun (Delacorte, 1994), is historical fiction at its best: actual events and the people who lived them are presented through well-rounded characters in a tight plot. Sixteen-year-old Eddie Okubo joins the U.S. Army in the wake of the shame he and his family face in their Hawaiian fishing community as Japan increases its aggression in late 1941. Within days, however, Pearl Harbor is attacked and Eddie is in an Army at war. He and some of his friends suffer through several historically documented acts of prejudice at the hands of the military, and then are involved in a project based on racist beliefs. They are sent to Mississippi where they are used as “bait” for dogs being trained to attack Japanese soldiers. Salisbury has created in Eddie a young man who is both a son and an independent man, an obedient soldier and an insightful citizen. Those around him include a dog being trained to kill, a Mississippian in awe of what the Army is creating in his bayou backyard, and a former high school teacher who leads his men as he rallied his students. Ramirez provides an excellent Hawaiian speech pattern, and the book’s glossary is included on the recording.–Francisca Goldsmith, Berkeley Public Library, CA

Gr 7-10–Scott Westerfeld’s intriguing novel (Razorbill, 2004) is a thriller that involves teenagers who aspire to be the first to discover a new, cool fashion trend. Seventeen-year-old Hunter Braque, a native New Yorker, aspires to be one of the trendsetters, and when he accidentally stumbles on a cache of pristine, vintage sneakers in an abandoned Chinatown building, Hunter’s life takes a number of twists and turns. While the book’s main idea is engaging, Westerfeld’s writing is not. The characters, despite their apparent coolness, do not strike either a sympathetic or absorbing chord with listeners, especially Hunter, who annoyingly speaks a sort of non-brand doublespeak (he can’t bring himself to mention a product’s brand name, so he invents a roundabout substitute name). Actor Scott Brick’s narration is adequate, but fails to compel or draw listeners into the story. While the tale that combines mystery, satire, and love story might entertain listeners, young adults interested in a satirical, utopian novel would be better served by M.T. Anderson’s Feed (Candlewick, 2002) or Aldous Huxley’s classic, Brave New World.–Larry Cooperman, Seminole High School, Sanford, FL

Gr 7-10–David Clement-Davies’ novel (Amulet Books, 2005) delivers a tale of Arthurian legend and magic grounded in historical fiction set during the Third Crusade. Rhodri lives an idyllic life as a falconer’s son and doesn’t believe the fortune-telling old hag and blind blacksmith—who are not exactly what they seem—who predict that he is destined for greatness. When Rhodri’s father marches off to support the king in the war a few years later, Rhodri, wishing he could have gone with him, meets the blacksmith again. Tantallon, living as a hermit in the forest, tells Rhodri the secret of the Telling Pool, a magical lake that shows the past, present, and future. After hearing about the tragic love triangle of Guinevere, Lancelot, and King Arthur, Rhodri sets off to find Excalibur, the sword that brings peace, determined to save his family and his land from an evil enchantress. The details of day-to-day life in the 12th century are intriguing and, although some of the secondary characters stray into the stereotypical, Rhodri’s struggles to become a man of worth as he embarks upon a hero’s quest of self-discovery are rich and rewarding. Narrator Gerard Doyle does a capable job with the combined English, Welsh, and French accents that populate the novel, and convincingly brings Rhodri from child to young man. A solid choice for libraries with fans of historical fiction and Arthurian legend.–Charli Osborne, Oxford Public Library, MI

Music

PreS-Gr 5–Even the original tunes feel like classics on this infectiously fun recording by John Kirk and Trish Miller. From the sneakily fact-filled “I Read It in a Book” to the toe-tapping “Aunt’s Dance” and the downright ridiculous “Song About a Duck,” listeners will relish the duo’s songwriting talent. The album also contains their energetic takes on a number of classics, among them Johnny Mercer’s “I’m an Old Cowhand,” “Froggie Went A Courtin’,” “The Fox,” “Old MacDonald,” and “I’m My Own Grandpa.” Utilizing the folksy sounds of banjo, guitar, fiddle, and ukulele, Kirk and Miller bring on the fun in an album parents and kids will enjoying listening to again and again.–Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD

PreS-Gr 1–This fifth album by Susan Salidor is intended for early childhood educators to use in circle times or story hours. It includes 14 new songs and six favorites from her previous albums. Divided into six sections, Salidor includes both traditional and original songs and fingerplays. A group of preteens and teenagers sing along. Salidor performs on autoharp and ukulele while other musicians play bass, fiddle, piano, guitar, drums, and synthesizer. The “Let’s Sing” section includes “The Wheels on the Bus,” a vocal warm-up going up and down a scale, “Hello Children!,” and “Bom Bom Biddy.” In “Favorite Fingerplays,” there are two traditional fingerplays (“The Baby in the Cradle” and “Here’s a Little Bird”) and three originals (“One Little Hanukah Candle,” “Five Little Tulip Bulbs,” and “I Saw Five Fish”). “Rhythm & Rhyme” includes “One Potato, Two Potato” and “You’re a Poet.” The three original “Songs That Teach” are “I’ve Got Peace in My Fingers,” “I Have a Dream,” and “When I Only Have a Minute.” Among the “Old Favorites” are “Miss Lucy Had a Baby” (in a jazzy arrangement) and “Home on the Range.” “Time to End” includes “Before You Were” and “Shalom Chaverim.” A wonderful resource for librarians, day care and early childhood teachers, and parents.–Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS-Gr 2–Singer/songwriter Dave Mampel, a.k.a. Daffy Dave, offers an upbeat collection of 26 previously released and two new songs meant to get youngsters up and moving. Listeners will find it difficult to sit still when they hear toe-tapping, hand-clapping songs like “Cuckoo Train,” “Yahoo & Scheechness!” and “Choo Choo Train.” Songs like “The Hop Hop Song” and “Shake a Hand, La, La, La” encourage participation while “One, Two Smelly Shoe” appeals to the silly side and “De Dinosaurs” evokes a feeling of the islands. Also included are delightful takeoffs on traditional tunes. “Hurry, Hurry, Fire Truck” is sung to the tune of “10 Little Indians” and “Twinkies, Twinkies, Candy Bars” is sung to the tune of “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.” Featuring strong, clear vocals and great instrumentation, these songs will delight children in story time or in their own living rooms. A fantastic addition to all collections.–Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

PreS–Winner of a Parents’ Choice Gold Award, this is a lovely anthology of 14 lullabies from around the world. Fourteen accomplished vocalists sing each song in its native language. Twelve professional musicians perform on unusual instruments such as djembe, dijeridoo berumbau, pandero, and voix, as well as familiar ones. The lullabies include “Makun” (Mali), “Chanson Gitane” (Eastern Europe), “Little Fishy” (Australia), “Owaiyare” (Japan), “Kondo” (Tchad), “Dodo Bébé” (Louisiana), “Sadraskwiio” (Canada/Huron-Wendake), “Na Wojtusia z Popielnika” (Poland), “Thula Thula” (South Africa), “La Ninna Nanna del Cavallino” (Italy), “Los Pollitos Dicen” (Costa Rica), “Yeraz” (Armenia), “Durme Hermosa Donzella” (Spain), and “Je te Dis Merci” (Canada). The accompanying book by Patrick Lacoursière features text in English, French, and Spanish and illustrations by Sylvie Bourbonnière. The simple story tells of an imaginary journey to many lands. Colorful stylistic paintings depict animals and round-faced people in two-page spreads, each corresponding to one of the countries represented on the CD. A great addition to world music collections.–Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

K-Gr 4–New Jersey-based singer/storyteller Ken Gallipeau is a one-man show. He sings. drums, and plays the keyboards. On this polished recording, he adds children’s voices to the refrains of several songs to add interest and encourage audience participation. Most songs have either a country (“Tricksters,” “Howl at the Moon”), rap (“Mother’s Plaint,” “Little Blue Top”), or Caribbean (“Some Houses”) rhythm. When compared with other nationally known singer/storytellers, Gallipeau has a narrow range of musical styles. Several of the 21 songs were composed by Gallipeau; most were written by others. Gallipeau covers Peter Alsop’s “I Am a Pizza,” altering the lyrics to fit his style. He also does a laudable cover of Tom Rush’s “Lullaby.” On numerous songs, Gallipeau’s voice sounds a lot like Bill Harley. Stand-out tunes include “Field Trip,” “Old St. Helen,” and the children’s standard “Potato.” Most kids will get a kick out of the Harry Potter-inspired “I Can’t Find My Invisibility Cloak.” If you can’t see Gallipeau in concert, this is the next best thing.–Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

PreS-Gr 4–The staff at Putumayo Kids have put together another excellent anthology of fun folk-style songs. Thirteen well-known children’s musicians and other artists contributed 12 songs to the album. Musicians perform beautifully on guitars, fiddles, bass, whistles, kazoos, and a variety of percussion instruments. Victor Johnson sings “This Old Man” who is counting out musical instruments. Zoe Lewis’s “Sheep” is performed with a variety of silly sounds. Other songs include “Just Kidding” (Jon Gailmor); “Got Not Strings” in Texas swing style, a mix of jazz and country music (Michelle Shocked); “It’s All How You Look at It” in folk-rock style (Brady Rymer); “Hop Up Ladies” (Dan Zanes); “Froggie Went a Courtin’ “ (Laurie Berkner); “Fill It Up” (Trout Fishing in America); “Roller in the Coaster” (Justin Roberts); “Polly Wolly Doodle” (Leon Redbone); “Crawdad” (Elizabeth Mitchell); and “Just Look Up” (Eric Bibb and Michael Jerome Browne). A gem for all library collections.–Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS-Gr 2–Singer/songwriter Dan Crow offers up 11 songs celebrating imagination and fairy tales on this silly CD. The catchy “Spin, Spider, Spin” is the standout here, but kids will giggle at the antics of a dancing giant in “Jack the Giant” and the image conveyed by the title track. Librarians will appreciate “Pages,” a paean to books. Though some songs (such as “The Trouble with Trolls”) may grate on adult ears, little kids with big imaginations will be glad to follow wherever this piper leads.–Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 2–Award-winner Jim Gill debuts another terrific collection of 14 rousing songs, all featuring some kind of movement play. He utilizes a variety of musical styles such as square dance, polka, jazz, bluegrass, and folk. Musicians perform on guitar, mandolin, fiddle, banjo, ukulele, drums, percussion, clarinets, saxophones, trombones, piano, harmonica, jaw harp, and more. In addition to Gill’s excellent vocals, a men’s chorus and a children’s chorus join in on several songs. “Hello, I Must Be Going” is Gill’s title for his cover of “Hooray for Captain Spaulding” from the Marx Brothers film Animal Crackers. “Tromboning” imagines a tiny Jim Gill holding onto a trombone slide for dear life. “Rhythm in My Fingers” is an adaptation of Geroge Gershwin’s “I Got Rhythm” into a call-and-response song. “Delay on the Freeway” uses a guitar to imitate the sounds of a flat tire, shock absorbers, springs, rain, and windshield wipers. In “Drumming the House,” drumsticks rap and tap on everything from the kitchen sink to the toilet. Among the other tunes are “Swing Your Partner,” “Jump Up, Turn Around,” “Sliding, Rolling and Jumping,” and “Strollin’ Down the Road.” Parents will appreciate the encouragement this album gives to engage in play with their children.–Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS–Beautiful, soothing melodies infuse this creation by Canadians Connie Kaldor and Carmen Campagne who harmonize on 13 lullabies with their sultry voices. The duo wrote the words and music for most of them. Some of the songs are in English, some in French, and some in both languages. Soft musical accompaniment is provided. Two of the songs are a cappella. The play list includes “All Through the Night” (traditional), “Prairie Lullaby,” “Lullaby, Lullaby,” “I Have You,” “Dream Baby” (with music based on Debussy’s “Au Claire de Lune”), “I’ve Been Told,” “Hushaby,” “Bonne Nuit” (Brahms’s lullaby in French), “La Poulette Grise” (traditional), “Petit Bébé,” “Maman Fait Dodo,” “Berceuse Pour Émanuel Reuben James” (by Edith Butler), and “Isabeau” (traditional). The picture book by Kaldor, with a rhyming lullaby, features lovely oil paintings by Brain Deines that depict sweeping prairie vistas and a sleeping infant. All of the song lyrics follow the book’s story. Additional printable files with illustrations, lyrics, musical arrangements, and production credits are on the CD. Most infants and small children will be lulled to sleep.–Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS-Gr 3–This album is intended as a companion to the top-rated PBS Kids Go TV show that depicts a bicultural family in a multicultural neighborhood. It is being promoted as the 14 favorite love songs of characters Maya and her best friends, Chrissy and Maggie. All of the songs have been radio hits at some time during the past four decades. The Tweens, an excellent band, provides the covers for the songs. The play list includes: “Beautiful Life” (Ace of Base), “Blowin’ in the Wind” (Bob Dylan), “Bridge Over Troubled Water” (Simon & Garfunkel), “Graduation (Friends Forever)” (Vitamin C Lyrics), “Happy Together” (Turtles), “I Wanna Be with You” (Mandy Moore), “I’d Like to Teach the World to Sing” (The New Seekers), “Imagine” (John Lennon), “Lean on Me” (various artists), “Love Don’t Cost a Thing” (Jennifer Lopez), “Stop! In the Name of Love” (the Supremes), “We Are Family” (Sister Sledge), “We Are the World” (Michael Jackson), and “You’ve Got a Friend” (James Taylor). Similar in concept to the Top Pop and Kidz Bop series, this album will appeal to young fans of the TV show.–Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS-Gr 2–Bookended by two original songs, Michelle Spray performs an enhanced audio version of her self-published book, My ABCs (An ABC Book for Any Age) (Bookshelf, 2006). For each letter, she offers words and an alliterative sentence, along with a “big word” and its meaning (“Aquarium is a big word for fish tank”). Then listeners are invited to identify a sound effect representing a word starting with that letter. Though the “big words” feature (and the catchy song on the subject) set this alphabet exploration apart from others of its ilk, many of the sound effects are near impossible to identify, and a host of irrelevant background noises and music on the spoken tracks make them difficult to hear.–Kathleen Kelly MacMillan, Carroll County Public Library, MD

Gr all levels–Known for playing the Appalachian mountain dulcimer, Canadian Rick Scott has been performing folk-style music for over 30 years. The ethereal music on this album is calming and relaxing. Most pieces were written by Scott, a few were co-written with Valerie Hennell, and one is by American Stephen Foster. Six songs are instrumental arrangements. Instrumental standouts include “Grandpa’s Promise” (featuring cello, viola, and violin), “Crystal Clog” (which treats the angelic vocalizations of Andrea L’Heureux like an instrument), and “Tatatatami” (featuring Harry Wong on recorders). The remaining five songs feature the vocals of either L’Heureux (who sings lead on Foster’s “Slumber My Darling”) or Scott (who sings lead on all others). Highlights include “Three Ships” (the familiar feel to the tune makes it an easy singalong), “Last Lullaby” (saying goodnight to all the instruments used in the recording), and “Butterfly” (featuring Scott’s baritone vocals and Wong’s recorders). Altogether, perfect music for naptime or to help listeners unwind after a hectic day.–Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

PreS-Gr 3–Mary Kaye’s lovely voice spins 13 creative, original songs on this third album. From African musical sounds to rock, country, and jazz, these songs scintillate with variety and pizzazz. Professional musicians perform on drums, percussion, didjeridoo, keyboard, bass, trumpet, trombone, violin, guitar, recorder, saxophone, and piano. The play list includes “Spin Your Web” (everyone has a job to do), “B. B. Dickinson” (female detective), “Shadow,” “Pig Party,” “Porcupine Path,” “Child,” “The Skeleton Song” (Halloween skeletons), “Let’s Get Dressed,” “Ten Robins,” “Waiting,” “Building a Ladder,” “Soup,” and “Blueberry Dreams.” This spirited album will be a welcome addition to all library collections for young children.–Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

Religion

K-Gr 6–Shira Kline and company have compiled a delightful mix of original lyrics, folksongs, and traditional Passover music to add to the celebration of this joyous Jewish festival. A lively tone is set from the opening number, “Pesach Bamba.” Kline’s attractive contralto along with professional instrumentals make the melodies move easily from contemporary to traditional. Many of the well known parts from the Passover haggadah are included in the collection. Among the 16 songs are “Let My People Go,” “Listen King Pharoah,” “Elijah Rock,” “and “Lotsa Lotsa Matza.” Hebrew text accompanies the English transliterations in the song book. Four bonus tracks are included for at-home celebration. Highly recommended for families celebrating Passover.–Robin Levin, Fort Washakie School/Community Library, Fort Washakie, WY

Science

K-Gr 5–Astronaut Buzz Aldrin narrates this fascinating autobiography (HarperCollins, 2005) that provides information about his childhood, his education, and his first steps on the moon. He also includes an account of how he got the name Buzz, his time at West Point, and his perseverance in becoming an astronaut. He provides details about his unique preparation for going into space, his first spaceflight on Gemini 12, and the moon landing with Neil Armstrong. Beautiful realistic illustrations by Wendell Minor give listeners the feeling that they are right there flying a plane or floating in space. Aldrin’s pacing and inflection draws listeners in, adding to the immediacy of Minor’s illustrations. Occasional, subtle sound effects and background instrumentation add to the richness of the story. This read-along set will work well in a classroom setting for units on space or biographies. A necessary addition to all collections serving elementary grade students.–Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

CORRECTIONS: Abraham Lincoln: Traditional Values (May 2006, p. 71), a one-man show performed by Gerald Bestrom on DVD, can be ordered from Bestrom Agency, 319 E. Madison, Hastings, MI 49058; phone 269/838-7073.

The CD featuring David Polansky, 32 Familiar (Mostly) Kid Songs (May 2006, p. 79), can be ordered from AV Cafe, 6201 S. 58th St., Suite A, Lincoln, NE 68516; 877/228-2233; theavcafe.com.