Audio Reviews

-- School Library Journal, 3/1/2007

Also in this article: Language Arts  Music  Games  Multiple Skills

Language Arts

Gr 6–10—Once in a long while, an adventure story captures the mind and the heart of listeners/readers, creating a miniature world that makes a deep impression on them. Such is the case with Kenneth Oppel's Printz Honor Book (Eos, 2004) which weaves a magical tale of adventure, treachery, friendship, and courage. Taking place in a future where airships and blimps travel across the Atlanticus and the Pacificus Oceans, cabin boy Matt Cruse, on board the Aurora, battles pirates and prehistoric cloudcats, accompanied by spirited heiress Kate DeVries. A cast of 32 actors, including high school sophomore David Kelly (as the voice of Matt Cruse), delivers riveting narration and excellent vocal special effects (such as the ship's captain speaking through his radio). Full of fun, adventure, and heart, Airborn makes for a one-of-kind listening experience. Fans of period history, science fiction, and adventure will cheer Matt along. This ALSC 2007 Notable Recording and YALSA 2007 Selected Audiobook for Young Adults is a must for young adult collections.—Larry Cooperman, Seminole High School, Sanford, FL

Gr 5–8—This entry (Scholastic, pap. 2006) in a series by Karen McCombie set in contemporary England focuses on a young teenage girl who has two older sisters, a younger brother, a loving and involved father, an absent mother off touring the continent, and enough pets to further disorganize a fairly crazy household. In this breezy story, Ally Love deals with her oldest sister's first serious boyfriend crisis, some family loyalty issues, and the balancing act inherent in a household with members needing very different things to be happy. A neighborhood band, a break-in, the almost-pilfering of a valuable old guitar, and occasional letters to Ally's distant mother move the pace along well as family values and character win out in Ally's realistically frazzled household. Read in a pleasant British accent by Daniela Denby-Ashe, Ally's voice comes through energetically and cheerfully. Listeners familiar with Georgia Nicholson from Cathy Hopkins's "Mates, Dates" series will enjoy Ally's escapades, although they are not as downright hilarious as Georgia's diary entries. Young teen girls who are already intrigued with both finding a place in and separating from family as peer relationships take precedence will enjoy hearing about Ally's exploits as she focuses on what really matters in a family and in friendships. A nice addition to collections serving fans of Louise Rennison and Cathy Hopkins.—Jane P. Fenn, Corning-Painted Post West High School, Painted Post, NY

Gr 9 Up—With Death as narrator, Markus Zusak's haunting novel (Knopf, 2003) follows Liesel Meminger, The Book Thief, through the fear-filled years of Nazi Germany. The story opens as the ten-year-old girl takes her first book shortly after her younger brother's death. Both children were en route to the foster home of Hans and Rosa Hubermann in a Munich suburb. Despite Rosa's sharp tongue and Hans's lack of work, their home is a loving refuge for the nightmare-ridden girl. It also becomes a hideout for Max, a young Jewish man whose father saved Hans's life. Liesel finds solace with her neighbor Rudy and her creative partnership with Max. Accompanied by Rudy, the girl copes by stealing food from farmers and books from the mayor's wife. There are also good moments as she learns to read and plays soccer, but Hans's ill-advised act of kindness to a Jewish prisoner forces Max to leave their safe house. The failing war effort and bombing by the Allies lead to more sacrifices, a local suicide and, eventually, to great losses. Reading books and writing down her experiences save Liesel, but this novel clearly depicts the devastating effects of war. Narrator Allan Corduner defines each character with perfect timing. He's deliberate as the voice of Death, softly strong as Liesel, and impatient, but not unkind, as Rosa. With richly evocative imagery and compelling characters, Zusak explores behind-the-lines life in World War II Germany, showing the day-to-day heroism of ordinary people. Relevant for class discussions on wars both past and present.—Barbara Wysocki, Cora J. Belden Library, Rocky Hill, CT

PreS-Gr 3—This Caldecott Honor book (Doubleday, 1961) illustrated by Peter Spier tells the story of the old folk song, "The Fox Went Out on a Chilly Night," about a fox who leaves his family to go to town in search of some dinner. He is successful at the farmer's house where he catches a grey goose and a duck. The fox is too fast for the farmer and his wife and manages to get his catch home where his family enjoys a delicious dinner. Read by incomparable children's entertainer Tom Chapin, the story is told at a nice lyrical pace. Subtle sound effects enhance the narration and bring to life Spier's beautiful illustrations that alternate between full color and black and white. As the book ends with the music and lyrics to the song, the reading of the story is followed by Chapin performing the song in all of its folksy glory. A fine addition to all collections for young children.—Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

Gr 5–8—In this diary-like, first person novel (Puffin Books, 2005) by Pete Johnson, Charlie is first disappointed by his father, who after leaving him and his mother for another woman, is killed in a car accident. Next, the teen discovers that his grandfather, who is a highly decorated World War II British pilot, was a member of the Blackshirts, a fascist group, before joining the Royal Air Force. Charlie attempts to get his granddad to face the truth and explain why he joined such a controversial movement. One question haunts Charlie: can a person do something terrible and still be a hero? British narrator Stuart McLoughlin's excellent narration will draw listeners into this thought-provoking story, especially middle school boys.—Beverly S. Almond, Moore Square Museums Magnet Middle School, Raleigh, NC

Gr 9 Up—Alice Hoffman's historical novel (Little, Brown, 2006) is brought to life compellingly in Jenna Lamia's subtly accented reading. At the dawn of the 16th century, Spain's Jews have fled, been restricted to ghettoes, or converted to Christianity in order to live openly in Spanish society. Estrella's family has lived in her village for 500 years and is, as far as the 16-year-old knows, like all her neighbors and her best friend, fervently Catholic. In fact, however, they are hidden Jews, and Estrella realizes this only weeks before it occurs to the townspeople. Hoffman describes with accuracy, but without undue manipulation, the devastation of Estrella's family through torture and murder, her confrontation of the truths about her supposed friend and her neighbors, and her newly found and embraced identity. An interesting love story adds an unusual element to the novel. An excellent choice for curriculum support as well as for casual listeners.—Francisca Goldsmith, Berkeley Public Library, CA

Gr 2–4—Third-grader Katie Kazoo has an unusual ability. After hastily wishing on a shooting star that she could be someone else, a magic wind appears at random, which unexpectedly transports Katie into someone else's body on a moment's notice. In Drat! You Copycat!, Becky, the new girl, tries to fit in by copying Suzanne, Katie's best friend. Instead of making friends, Becky becomes known as the class copycat. When Katie suddenly finds herself in Becky's shoes, will Katie be able to help her or does even more trouble arise for both Katie and the new girl? In Doggone It!, Katie's teacher, Mrs. Derkman, moves in next door to Katie. On top of being incredibly strict and often harsh in school, Katie discovers that Mrs. Derkman is not fond of dogs. When the magic wind turns Katie into her own dog, things start to look "ruff" in the neighborhood. Actress Anne Bobby's narration is fluid and engaging, and Katie's fans will be entertained by this wonderful audiobook. For school and public libraries.—Amy Joslyn, Fairport Public Library, NY

Gr 5–8—Young Tom Ward finds himself taking on more dangerous villains in the second book (Greenwillow, 2006) in Joseph Delaney's series. Six months into his apprenticeship to the monster hunter, aka the Spook, Tom is wrangling boggarts, ghosts, and witches. When he and the Spook are compelled to journey to Priestown for the Spook's brother's funeral, frightful situations develop. The sadistic Quisator is present, seeking to capture and kill the Spook. Alice, Tom's good witch friend, is among those already rounded up for a gruesome mass burning at the stake. How can Tom save Alice when his master recommends leaving her to her fate? Could the Spook's attitude reflect a regretful past love affair with a witch? Meanwhile, a more fearsome creature is bound to the catacombs under the Priestown cathedral. The Bane is a shape-shifting spirit who sucks blood and controls minds. It's up to Tom to outwit the Bane before it infiltrates his mind and inflicts its preferred method of execution, squashing victims flat. Christopher Evan Welch skillfully juggles voices, most notably conveying the Spook's irascibility and Tom's earnestness. Yet it is the Bane that takes center stage with its echoing hiss and eerie, Yoda-like syntax. The violence and villains here are not for the faint of heart. A YALSA 2007 Selected Audiobook for Young Adults.—Erin B. Allen, Rowan Public Library, Salisbury, NC

Gr 4–7—Twelve-year-old Esmie's life is getting complicated in Gwyneth Rees's sequel (Macmillan, pap. 2005) to The Mum Hunt (Delacorte, 2003). She loves her dad's new girlfriend, Lizzie, but begins to doubt her when it appears Lizzie is keeping a secret. In the meantime, her older brother's girlfriend longs to find the mother who abandoned her years ago. Does any of this have anything to do with the body that was recently discovered in town? It's time for Esmie to practice those all-important detecting skills that she'll need to hone for her future detective career. She'll track down that missing mother and identify the corpse. Esmie appears to get most of her exercise by jumping to conclusions, which inevitably gets her into trouble. This very British story is read with a lot of enthusiasm, and the perfect accent, by Kelly Hunter. It should appeal to tweens and early teens who will sympathize with Esmie's desire for a little excitement in her life.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 9 Up—The sequel (Megan Tingley Books, 2006) to Stephenie Meyer's Twilight (Little, Brown, 2005) gets off to a quick start when 17-year-old Bella's good vampire boyfriend, Edward, leaves her behind in order to keep her safe from bad vampires. Depressed, Bella drops out of her social life, can't concentrate at school, and is threatened to be sent away from home by her father unless she pulls herself together. When Bella discovers that she can summon the memory of Edward, cautioning her, whenever she undertakes a physically dangerous activity, she formulates a plan to continually place herself at risk—learning to ride a motorcycle, walking in woods where a mammoth bear has been sighted, and so on. She comes to respect and care deeply for Jacob Black, an old childhood friend who is willing and able to help her with these projects. And then Jake, a few years younger than Bella, grows into his manhood—which, in his case, is his werewolfhood. Ilyana Kadushin reads with flair and evocative voicing, slipping from Edward's suavity into Jake's adolescent scratchiness, from Bella's depressed weariness to her excitement and fear. Fans of Twilight won't be disappointed, and those new to the series can pick it up here and go back later to find out more about Edward's evil co-vampires. The end leaves a clear path for the next installment of Bella's complicated romantic life.—Francisca Goldsmith, Berkeley Public Library, CA

Gr 3–5—Tess, 9, is a bit old to still believe in Santa Claus, but believe she does in this novel (Scholastic, 2006) by Ann M. Martin. She also believes that midnight is a powerful time, especially on Christmas Eve. Tess hopes to take advantage of the magical hour to help her best friend's dad who is slowly dying of cancer. In this unevenly paced novel, Tess actually meets Santa who teaches her about miracles and hope in this story set in the late 1950s. While this is not one of Martin's best novels, Broadway actress Alison Fraser does a wonderful job of bringing it to life. Her appropriately girlish tone is suitably somber when necessary, and she successfully conveys the sense of wonder that Tess feels. Fraser is the highlight of the production.—B. Allison Gray, John Jermain Memorial Library, Sag Harbor, NY

Gr 5 Up—The only officially sanctioned sequel to Barrie's classic, Geraldine McCaughrean's tale (Margaret K. McElderry Books, 2006) retains the flavor of the original while introducing several delightful new characters. McCaughrean reminds us that Peter is a rather difficult, extremely selfish character who is softened only by the human children who visit Neverland. The now adult Darlings are called back to Neverland, becoming children again, with little thought of their grown-up selves. Things have changed in Neverland, with Pan under the influence of the obsequious Raveling Man, Mr. Ravello. Those familiar with the original tale will begin to realize who the Raveling Man is and what his influence on Peter is doing to Neverland. Room is left for a possible sequel to this tale. Tim Curry is a brilliant narrator, providing a reading that conveys plenty of suspense and despair but also humor and piquancy. His wicked laugh perfectly conveys Ravello's delight in nasty bits of business. His reading of Toodles, a ballerina with a crush on Peter, is especially fun as Toodles was a pompous male barrister as an adult. The story will definitely touch listeners' hearts.—B. Allison Gray, John Jermain Memorial Library, Sag Harbor, NY

Gr 9 Up—Teenage troublemaker Tally Youngblood and her friends are back in this fast-paced sequel (Simon Pulse, 2005) to Scott Westerfeld's Uglies (Simon Pulse, 2005). Now herself a Pretty, Tally finds that life as a vapid partygoer in a barely functional dystopian society doesn't hold the attraction she thought it would. When one of the Uglies delivers a message along with two mysterious pills that promise to "cure" the lesions that were implanted along with her cosmetic enhancements, Tally splits the pills with her new boyfriend and they both begin to come out from the mind-numbing fog that has surrounded them for so long. Her best friend's jealousy along with a risky plan to save the other Pretties soon have Tally and her friends hoverboarding for their lives. Carine Montbertrand's disaffected, adenoidal, and flat voice is a perfect match for Tally's post-Valley girl mentality and actions at the beginning of the story. Then, as Tally changes, so does the vocal tone and quality of the narrator. Will Tally succeed in regaining her individuality and maintaining her independence? Just as with the first book in the trilogy, the ending will have listeners hurrying to their libraries and bookstores for Specials (Simon Pulse, 2006), the final volume of this futuristic trilogy.—Cindy Lombardo, Tuscarawas County Public Library, New Philadelphia, OH

K-Gr 4—Gophers are not supposed to be able to talk, or read, or enjoy eating pizza, or have a library in their tunnels. But Ralphie is not your average gopher in these stories by Rich Stim and Steve Fishman. "Don't Eat the Pizza" introduces the intrepid gopher, explaining away his extraordinary abilities to talk and read books, and introducing the origins of his friendship with Amy, a little girl who discovers Ralphie's talents. In "Home Is Where the Cat Is," Ralphie learns that Amy has dyslexia and serves as her tutor. When Amy wants to learn how to read and write more quickly, disaster nearly strikes. Ralphie finds his soul mate in "The Female Has Spoken," or does he? Stim's delivery sounds like he is reading from a script. Though he does use some inflection when reading conversations between the characters, his delivery is generally flat. Some music and sound effects are sprinkled throughout the telling. Unfortunately, the spontaneity found in entertaining storytelling is nonexistent, and the text often is too didactic and preachy.—Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

Gr 4–7—Lemony Snicket's last book (HarperCollins, 2006) in this incredibly popular series leaves listeners with some answers and more questions. The tale begins where the last volume left off, with the three Baudelaire orphans trapped at sea in a boat with Count Olaf. The castaways survive a storm and end up on an island where other castaways from other storms have established a quiet life lead by a suspicious facilitator, Ishmael, who eventually forces the orphans to leave the camp. The children find the answers to many secrets, including the fact that their own parents once lived on this island. With the appearance of Kit Snicket and an encounter with Count Olaf, a new orphan joins the story. Will Count Olaf get his just rewards? Will the orphans find peace in this treacherous world? Tim Curry is a marvelous narrator, giving each orphan, villain, and innocent bystander his or her own voice. He also sings a song at the end of the recording about being shipwrecked, which is a wonderful, dark ending to The End. A must for Lemony Snicket fans.—Lisa W. Baker, Chocowinity Middle School, NC

Gr 6 Up—Gwen, a 17-year-old violin prodigy from the West Virginia hills, is studying at the Manhattan School of Music and living with her grandfather. She is about to audition for several prestigious music schools when her grandfather mysteriously disappears. She meets Robert, a fellow student musician, who assists her in trying to find her grandfather. Robert's magical secret (perhaps a gift) is discovered as the mystery unfolds, ending with tragic results. But along the way, Gwen learns more about herself and what is truly important in her life. Andrews Clements's novel (Philomel, 2006) is written with a sure, deft hand that grabs listeners' hearts and minds. Nancy Wu narrates with a calm and steady, yet sympathetic and passionate voice that resonates with listeners. A great choice for young adult collections.—Larry Cooperman, Seminole High School, Sanford, FL

Gr 4–6—Colin's younger brother has cancer, but he refuses to acknowledge that Luke is dying in this novel (Trophy Press, pap. 1993) by Morris Gleitzman. Collin's parents send him to stay with relatives in England until his brother dies. The boy decides that he must find the best oncologist in the UK and bring him back to Australia to help his brother. He contacts doctors and even solicits help from the Queen. Outside the hospital, Colin meets Ted, who's lover is dying of AIDS. Colin is non-judgmental about Ted's relationship and helps the couple by telling jokes, bringing fruit, and more. After realizing how much it meant to Ted and his boyfriend to spend those last moments together, Colin returns home to Australia to be there for Luke. Colin's observations and innocence lead to some very funny scenes. Gleitzman superbly narrates this story that deals with many important issues: cancer, AIDS, gay-bashing, death. His wonderful sense of pacing portrays Colin's maturation. Listeners will understand the Australian and British words in context.—B. Allison Gray, John Jermain Memorial Library, Sag Harbor, NY

Gr 7 Up—Scott Westerfield's dystopic young adult novel (S & S, 2005) plays on adolescent changes, both physical and emotional. In this futuristic world, upon reaching their 16th birthday, teens undergo an operation to turn them from an "Ugly" into a thoughtless and vain "Pretty." Tally is nearly 16 and very much anticipating crossing that threshold; her boyfriend, a few months older than she, has already gone "Pretty" and moved to New Pretty Town, where she can visit him only by sneaking there in the dead of night aboard her skateboard. But when Tally meets Shay, another 15-year-old girl, she is nearly talked into running away to join a legendary group of people who have dropped out of society in order to live free of its required operation and social stratification. Almost at the last minute, Tally does follow Shay and quickly finds that she feels comfortable with the people of the Smoke, as these dropouts call their home. And then the dominant society attacks. Carine Montbertrand reads this complicated and thought-provoking fable with energy. Not all of her voice selections for the main characters seem fitting, but the diversity of tone and accent aids listeners in keeping straight a large cast.—Francisca Goldsmith, Berkeley Public Library, CA

Gr 4–8—Set in the 1870s, Patricia Giff Reilly's Water Street (Wendy Lamb Books, 2006) is the sequel to Nory Ryan's Song (Delacorte, 2000; Listening Library, 2002) and Maggie's Door (Random, 2003; Listening Library 2003). The stories of Bridget "Bird" Mallon and Thomas Neary are told in alternating chapters. Classmates and neighbors in Brooklyn, Bird and Thomas become friends during the eighth grade. Bird's parents emigrated from Ireland to escape the potato famine, and Thomas's father is a drunk. Each has dreams of bettering themselves. Bird longs to be a healer like her mother, but when a gruesomely injured patient leaves her shaken, she doubts herself. Thomas diligently records his experiences on paper, hoping to become a writer. Coleen Marlo's distinctive voice complements the narration, providing varying degrees of an Irish accent for the adults. Listeners new to the family saga will have no trouble appreciating Water Street as a stand-alone, and will search out its predecessors.—Erin B. Allen, Rowan Public Library, Salisbury, NC

PreS-Gr 2—This debut offering from the husband and wife team of Ellen and Matt offers 10 lively original songs that feature a full sound including guitars, drums, percussion, and piano. Ellen performs a fun whistling solo in the opening track, "Eat My Dinner." The styles of the songs, which touch on the everyday experiences of childhood, reflect the musical influences of the Beatles and the Carpenters, as well as the Pixies and the Ramones. In the opening piece, "Eat My Dinner," they reflect on a typical childhood meal of "chicken potatoes, tossed salad and tomatoes." "Side by Side" presents the joys of the first bicycle received as a part of preschool graduation. "Bounce," a lively song with a great drum beat, would be a fun addition to story time. Kids and caregivers will enjoy singing and dancing along, while parents and teachers will appreciate the positive messages. For example, "Airplane" is about an airplane that is afraid to fly, but faces his fears in order to "soar up high." A fun collection for school and public libraries.—Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

K-Gr 4—Naomi Baltuck, storyteller and author, with the help of her daughters and a children's chorus, sings several songs, chants rhymes, and tells stories that can be used in story time programs. Most of the selections are accompanied by one or more instruments, such as keyboard, bass, drums, oboe, guitar, and mandolin. The songs, most in a traditional folk style (some include original additions by Baltuck) include "Move Over," "Bill Grogan's Goat," "May There Always Be Sunshine," "Ravioli" (to the tune of "Allouette"), "The Limerick Song" (the chorus uses the tune of "Cielito Lindo"), "Little Green Frog," and "Mrs. Murphy's Chowder" (which contains many odd ingredients), among others. There are four participatory rhyming chants: "Bazooka-zooka Bubble Gum," "The Rabbits Are Eating the Tomatoes," "Skippin' Home from School" (the pet eats the family, then burps them all up), and "Let Me See Your Frankenstein" (a call and response chant). Three stories round out the selections: "Little Piggy Rap" ("Three Little Pigs" in rhyming rap style), "Prinderella and the Since" (a story with spoonerisms and other word play), and "Night and Day" (the animals argue over the amount of daylight or night the world should have). When the children's chorus sings, it is sometimes difficult to understand the lyrics; a lyrics booklet would have been helpful. Overall, this is a successful effort and will be welcomed by librarians, teachers, and parents.—Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS—Award-winning Dutch composer, Raimond Lap, believes that listening to great classical music helps to stimulate babies brains and aids in their musical and intellectual development. This series features 10 musical compositions from each of three great composers: Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart. Each piece is flawlessly performed using one or more musical instruments as well as sounds from a baby, nature, birds, and toys. A treat for babies and parents.—Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS-Gr 3—This amazing recording offers 15 songs with constantly changing styles that flow seamlessly into one another. At times the vocals and instrumentations evoke the styles of artists as varied as James Taylor and Dave Matthews. The lyrics range from very simple as in "I'm a Fish, I Like to Swim" to the more complex lyrics of "Come to the Plaza." A new take on classic nursery rhymes such as "Humpty Dumpty" and "Jack & Jill" is performed in a "Mother Goose Medley." "Hello" is an action song that would be perfect for story times. A variety of instruments from the dulcimer to the mandolin to the pan flute are featured, with some of them highlighted in three instrumental pieces. This recording will entertain all members of the family. An extremely worthwhile addition to every collection.—Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 3—Tommy Gardner (from The Uncle Brothers) delivers a strong solo CD comprised of 14 tracks. His intended audience is kids who have outgrown preschool pop, yet aren't quite ready to make the leap to the Top 40. Relying mostly on country & western two-step tunes and Caribbean-inspired music, a big band swing number and a pop rock song are added for good measure. His vocals sound eerily reminiscent of Cat Stevens from the 1970s. Effective use of horns and sax are found in "Next Harry Potter," a tune often similar to "Shortnin'." A strumming guitar strips "The Gnome (Silent Letter Song)" to a basic spelling lesson. Story-songs include "Kangaroo Waffles" (a zoo escapee, a kangaroo sets up a pancake shop for wild animals in the woods), "Bully Bubba" (how a bully gets his come-uppance), and "Lunch Trade" (how to trade your yucky lunch for a better tasting one). Advice is doled out in "One" (do a nice thing for someone and see how goodwill spreads), "Imagine This" (your imagination can be your good friend), and "The Monster" (surround yourself with friends to face the monster). Gardner does an admirable cover of Harry Chapin's "Flowers Are Red" and adds his own positive message by rewording the classic pop song "If You Wanna Be Happy." A pleasing collection.—Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

PreS-K—Enzo Garcia performs 9 traditional songs, 5 original songs, and one traditional and one original action rhyme. He has a pleasant baritone voice and performs beautifully on guitar, banjo, accordion, slide whistle, trump, percussion, piano, and bass. All but three of the pieces are sung in a traditional folk style. "Jim Along Josie" and "Trot Old Joe," accompanied by expert banjo picking, are the best of the lot. Among the other songs are "Oh, Oh the Sunshine," "Milk Bottle Blues," "Sambalelê" (a Brazilian style samba), "The Ants Go Marching," and "Down in the Valley." Garcia doesn't offer instructions for the two action rhymes, and they are less successful than the songs. An enjoyable album.—Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS-Gr 3—In this latest album from Ezra Idlet and Keith Grimwood, the duo known as Trout Fishing in America proves that they are just as fantastic live as they are in the studio. Recorded at the Donald Reynolds Performance Hall in Conway, Arkansas, this concert is filled with the duo's trademark energy and fine musicianship. The 15 songs include many previously released favorites such as "My Hair Had a Party Last Night" and "Alien in My Nose" along with a few new songs like "I've Got a Friend (and He Won't Be Quiet)." Idlet and Grimwood's enthusiasm for entertaining a family-based audience is evident in both their music and their playful patter between songs. Excellent songwriting combined with superb musical talent make this performance a must have for every collection.—Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

K-Gr 2—Laurence Miller, aka "Mister Laurence," wrote 11 of the 12 songs and poems on this, his fifth album, using a variety of rock styles, from a Beach Boys sound to hard rock. Most of the compositions deal with school topics. Vocal and instrumental performances are very good. Mister Laurence and his Play Money Band perform on guitars, keyboards, clarinet, recorder, bass, and drums. The play list includes "Recess Forever!," "Rusty Swing," "We Won't Be Afraid" (of tests, mistakes, etc.), "Beautiful, Beautiful, Beautiful Trees," "I'm a Little Teapot" (with additional words and music by Laurence), "There's a Poem in My Head," "Toe-Touching Torchy & the Talking Shoes" (part spoken poem, part a cappella song), "Choe Chee's Reoccurring (sic) Dream," a reprise of "Recess Forever," and more. Libraries in Michigan may be especially interested in this offering by the Ann Arbor native.—Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS-Gr 3—These 10 songs, written and performed by Greg Loop, touch on a variety of educational topics for children. For instance, "Respect" encourages young listeners to care for the Earth. One particularly silly song, "Poodles and Strudel," includes lots of rhyming words. Two songs tell of life near the sea and the adventures of Salty Knobby Knees. "Curtis" recounts the love a family has for its cat. The tunes are catchy and youngsters will have fun singing along. The order of the songs on the CD is different from the list on the liner notes. A solid addition to public library collections.—Maren Ostergard, King County Library System, Issaquah, WA

Pre-Gr 2—Classically trained, ex-punk rocker David Weinstone has remastered this collection of 20 of the most requested songs by Music for Aardvarks, a New York City-based alternative-music class program for young children. Most of the short songs are sung through twice, making them perfect to use as a part of preschool story time. The music is spare, simple, uncomplicated. Weinstone adds interest by using multiple vocal tracks to add depth, and by using a variety of musical instruments to accompany his guitar. Children will relate to the topics covered in the songs, among them "Daddy's Snoring," "Dirt," "Splashing in the Tub," "Bagel," and "Talking on the Phone." Other standouts include "Swing Town" (a cool jazzy number that channels Santana in its opening), "Belly Button Song" (sung Louis Armstrong-style), and "Miami Grammy" (the thrill of going to visit Grandma and her boyfriend in Florida). A fun collection.—Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

Gr 1–3—This educational game is designed for 1 to 2 players who must answer trivia questions using the DVD remote's arrow and enter buttons. Upon insertion, the disc immediately jumps randomly into its over 500 music, science, history, and common knowledge questions, which are accentuated by bright colors and interesting graphics and presented in the form of true/false and multiple choice questions, word games, and memory tests. Difficulty ranges from ridiculously easy (what is 3+3?) to difficult (how many strings are on a violin?). Questions and possible answers are read by male and female voices. Once the player has responded to a question, the correct answer is given and then a short fact, or occasionally a mini video, is presented. For most questions, there is no feedback on the child's response. While the game's concept is excellent, its execution is disappointing. With no root menu, there is no way to select topics or even note where you left off. Lags between questions and occasionally not being able to click on a certain answer can be frustrating. Children who are accustomed to video console and computer games will quickly lose interest.—Leigh Ann Rumsey, Penn Yan Academy, NY