Multimedia Review

Gr 1–6—Each volume in this series provides instructions for at least five child-friendly projects that require just five items and five steps to complete. School Days includes directions for making a locker note pad, a cork memo board with mirror, a star-shaped mirror, a ladybug bookmark, and a fabric-covered binder. Each segment begins with a look at the attractive and well-crafted finished product and an overview of the required supplies. The five steps are then clearly presented and skills, such as how to use fancy edged scissors, are demonstrated. The instructor also shares some wonderful tips and techniques which will prove useful beyond this program. Most of the projects are decorated with flowers and hanging beads, but the instructor encourages personal creativity and mentions other options for embellishment. Each craft demonstrated requires a different set of supplies. The segments could be viewed by groups or individuals, though its use may be limited by the suggestion to "check out your hair" in the star-shaped locker mirror.—Heather Acerro, Allen County Public Library, Fort Wayne, IN

Gr 7 Up—Teen viewers will see themselves in Ashley and Miguel, actors dramatizing their daily lives as "Digital Natives," young people whose brains have been wired to new technologies. Ashley is shown checking emails, downloading music to MP3 players, watching previously recorded TV programs, texting friends on her cell phone, and talking about a video she is readying to download to YouTube—all at the same time. Miguel, who has recently landed a job and found an apartment and bicycle from online postings, shares his favorite video game blog, and admits he uses Facebook to contact friends rather than talk in person. The benefits of these new technologies and the need for individuals to protect their security, privacy, and safety when using digital technology are addressed. Miguel is shown "text-walking," a risky, but common practice of sending cell phone text messages while walking, and texting while driving. The adult female narrator addresses new research on the impact Digital Natives are having on productivity, the ability to retain information, and human interaction. Citing lack of face-to-face communication and "bouncing" from one task to another, the program notes a weakening of brain circuitry in reading emotions and the lack of opportunity to make rich mental connections. Teachers will be interested in the discussion about how these technologies have changed reading habits, literacy, and information processing. This stellar film is a must-have for both students and educators.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 3 Up—When Helen and her family move to Chem City, Texas, the tween is convinced that she will lead a dull existence. She quickly discovers that crime is up in the city as the result of a dognapping ring. After Helen's friend Marie's dog is taken, the two girls learn that a group of unruly teens are stealing pedigreed pups for the local mob. They try to get help from the police and their parents, but the cop turns out to be part of the ring and their parents are clueless as to how to help. In the end, a magic bracelet helps Helen and Marie capture the criminals and return the dogs to their families. Lots of humor, quirky characters, and non-stop action keep the plot moving. This film, with the message that friendship and courage are important, has been approved by the Dove Foundation and is rated PG for mild action (physical violence against the girls and mob members), crude humor (dog farts), and smoking in a few scenes. Bonus features include out-takes, deleted scenes, and a downloadable study guide. For public libraries where family friendly independent films are in high demand.—Wendy Woodfill, Hennepin County Library, Minnetonka, MN

Gr 4–10—Host Wes Halula talks to the camera about making new friends as a familiar scene plays out in the background. A girl sits alone, looking forlorn, as two nearby students chat away, oblivious to her. Accessible and humorous, Halula offers commonsense advice about building basic interpersonal skills and making friends: relax, talk about the other person, ask open-ended questions, and listen carefully. In the dramatized scene, these tips meet with success as the girl approaches the other students with a question about swim team tryouts. The second segment, about keeping friends, explains that shared interests, empathy, respect, loyalty, forgiveness, and reciprocity are keys to genuine and long-lasting friendships. Reciprocity, explained as "give and take," is demonstrated by one student trying to start a volleyball game with a friend who ignores the ball and lets it drop. The overt analogy reinforces the notion that friendship requires commitment on both sides. The final section addresses the importance of ending friendships with respect and in person. The program's positive message and simple delivery make it valuable, particularly for middle schoolers who may need to refine these social skills.—Vicki Reutter, Cazenovia High School, NY

Gr 9 Up—This compelling documentary recounts the personal journey of Diane Israel, a psychotherapist and former champion triathlete, from anorexia and obsessive exercising to recovery. From her love of running as a child through her obsession with thinness as a teen and young adult, Israel describes how her health deteriorated through the pursuit of physical perfection. Featuring testimony from Israel and other athletes with body-image issues, the film explores eating and obsessive exercise disorders and the standards of beauty in our American culture. The athletes talk about of exercise, the avoidance of food, and bulimic behavior as weight-control tactics. Diane Israel is now a psychotherapist devoted to helping others by expanding their view of beauty and body image. She talks with a class of teens about body image to help them learn to accept themselves. Experts discuss re-imaging the concept of beauty. While the concentration is on women's body issues, concerns common to both sexes are covered. An inspiring film for health classes, sports teams, and professional development.—Ann Weber, Bellarmine College Prep., San Jose, CA

Gr 4–6—Using the acronym C (clean hands) A (acne/face) T (teeth) C (clean body) H (hair), host Rachel and two young teens explain the basics of personal hygiene through step-by-step instructions and demonstrations. The production illustrates why good grooming is important while also showing the science behind body odor and other results of poor hygiene. Rachel, an engaging and believable host, matter-of-factly takes the embarrassment out of the process. The teens help to give children a good handle on creating a personal daily hygiene routine. Combining important facts with some humor, this film has high kid appeal and would be appropriate for classroom and library settings.—Terry Ann Lawler, Phoenix Public Library, AZ

Gr 9 Up—This production follows three British teens as they experience major life changes and attempt to cope with their compulsions to self-harm. Loosely structured around interviews with the subjects, the camera follows them as they navigate the road to recovery. One young woman describes her battle with arthritis and the social ostracization that drove her to cut herself. Her parents are also interviewed, adding additional perspective to her struggle. Another teen, diagnosed with affect disorder, lives at a YMCA and keeps a video diary. We later learns she is a lesbian; although this is not a major point of interest in her story, it does add diversity to the small group of young people interviewed. Gary, who has lived in a group home since the age of 13, experiences the most difficulty in coping with his urges, and struggles to leave his criminal record behind. All the teens describes their harmful activities as a way to cope with emotions such as anger and confusion. Each finds motivation (with varying degrees of success) in activities such as sailing and music. The film does not provide enough contextual or background information concerning self-mutilation. Instructors should note that the frank depiction of the subjects' lives include strong language as well as the use of slang which might be unfamiliar to an American audience.—Meghann R. Matwichuk, University of Delaware, Newark

PreS-Gr 5—In this Japanese folktale, Chieko plays the koto, a stringed instrument. Soon her music turns to a joyful duet as a mysterious stranger from the forest joins her on the flute. When a bridge needs replacing, Chieko discovers that her friend was actually the spirit of a pine tree—the tree the villagers cut down to rebuild the bridge. This bittersweet story by Steven Gregory (Tales Alive, 2009) is nicely presented by a male narrator as beautiful watercolor sumi-e brush paintings by Takashi Ijichi are scanned iconographically. Sound effects and traditional Japanese music accompany the brief tale. DVD extras include a live performance by koto player Reiko Obata, an introduction to bonsai cultivation, footage of traditional Japanese dress and dance, and a demonstration of the sumi-e form of Japanese artwork. The DVD format allows access to individual segments. This charming introduction to Japanese culture through folklore and the arts will have multiple uses in a school setting—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

K-Gr 3—Excited about it being Crazy Hair Day at school, Stanley enlists his mother's help to decorate his hair using rubber bands, hair gel, and spray color. He arrives at school and is horrified to find out that it's class picture day—Crazy Hair Day is the following week. When his classmates tease him about his unusual appearance, Stanley resolves to spend the day in the bathroom. When his best friend encourages him to come out of hiding for the photo session, Stanley arrives in the classroom and is overjoyed to see that all of his classmates have created crazy hairdos for the occasion. The DVD has three tracks: an animated version of Barry Saltzberg's book (Candlewick, 2003), a music video of the author's song of the same title, and an interview with Saltzberg who talks about his background as an author/illustrator/musician, where he gets his ideas, and his inspiration for this story (a child who had cancer) and song. Saltzberg's comical pencil, ink, and acrylic illustrations have been crisply animated. While the backgrounds remain static, the movement of the characters draws viewers in and extends the story. Attention to detail in the artwork is emphasized, with added snippets such as Stanley doing a "happy dance" and flushing the toilets that match Saltzberg's style. Zach Braff does an admirable job of reading the text, using slight changes in pitch and intonation to indicate different characters and moods. A read-along option can be activated on the DVD. This outstanding adaptation of a delightful book will be useful for units on friendship, compassion, teamwork, and risk taking.—Stephanie Bange, Wright State University, Dayton, OH

PreS-Gr 2—Take a multiple award-winning book (Hyperion, 2003) written and illustrated by Mo Willems, add the author's and Jon Scieszka's voices, Peter List's animation, and Scotty Huff's lively jazz music, and the result is a tremendously captivating film. The well-loved tale of a pigeon who dreams of driving a bus, and who pleads and cajoles for the opportunity, is brought to life. The DVD opens with a choice of a Karaoke version, or one in which youngsters supply a resounding "NO!" in response to Pigeon's unrelenting bargaining to be allowed to drive the bus. Read-along subtitles, in which the words are highlighted as they are spoken, are optional. Each version opens with extra scenes of Pigeon driving a bus and delighting in the havoc he wreaks along the route. A jazzy beat sets the lively tempo of the scenes, and crazy cartoon sound effects add even more humor to Pigeon's crazy antics. The pages have been fully animated; Pigeon's expressions after each denial are priceless, and the framing of the simple bird on blank pastel pages makes his reactions even more effective. As credits roll, Pigeon and the driver discuss bus models and Pigeon's inability to actually drive. In the bonus interview, Willems offers background for the story and shows highlights of his visit with first-graders. He also teaches the children to draw Pigeon, since he thinks that books should be objects of play and doorways to creativity. Pigeon and Willems will enchant viewers.—MaryAnn Karre, Horace Mann Elementary School, Binghamton, NY

K-Gr 2—A spooky synthesizer bounces along in this simple DVD version of Denise Fleming's Halloween classic (Holt, 2001). Rhymed couplets capture the expectant Halloween atmosphere of pumpkins, skeletons, trick-or-treating, and more. The book's illustrations—richly textured by pouring fibers into hand-cut stencils—are scanned with minor animation added. Costumed children seeking treats abound. Although the narrator recites the text crisply, an echo effect attempts to magnify the voice, but results instead in a muffled, over-produced sound. Short and sufficiently scary for young children, the strength of the production is its Halloween poetry. Children could listen to the verse and identify the rhyming words, and then respond with their own couplets. A good choice for young children.—Lonna Pierce, MacArthur Elementary School, Binghamton, NY

Gr 2–4—Teaching cursive can be a challenge, but this program helps simplify the process. The introduction provides the basics for teachers and/or parents, discussing such things as grip, posture, and tips for dealing with left-handed children. The next two segments cover uppercase and lowercase letters, showing how they are written and grouped by stroke similarity. Each letter is written twice, once as an example, and the second time for viewers to follow along. They are presented with two sight words each, and shown against a background of something beginning with that letter. Emphasis is placed on letter formation and where the letters fit on the line. The final segment teaches how letters are connected, as well as an exception for capital letters. The colorful graphics feature the cursive letter and sight words beginning with that letter. Breaks are taken during the lessons as each type of stroke is finished, giving viewers 30 seconds to observe a collection of items and write down as many as they can remember that begin with the target letters. This title would be a good addition to classroom instruction and would provide home practice for students who need additional reinforcement.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 10 Up—The results of scientific research, archaeological excavations, and centuries of biblical scholarship are presented in an attempt to suggest how the first five books of the Bible came into being based on verified evidence. Who wrote the Bible? Where did the Israelites come from? How did the worship of one God emerge? Scholars in many related fields are interviewed and conclusions are drawn from the evidence they have collected. They attempt to link events and individuals mentioned in the Old Testament with incidents and people in the history of Egypt and surrounding countries as well as archaeological discoveries that prove that history was recorded correctly. Egyptian hieroglyphics on obelisks and buildings tell about Egypt defeating the nation of Israel and many other facts that coincide with statements in the Bible. The film features archaeologists who have found gated cities that match descriptions of cities during Solomon's reign, and digs in Jerusalem that may be part of the palace of David. The authors present all the data, go to the various archaeological sites, and verify some of the biblical facts. Bonus features include 30 additional minutes of filming and a featurette about the making of the film. This beautifully filmed, well-organized, and thought-provoking production is best suited for public libraries due to its religious content.—Cynde Suite, Bartow County Public Library System, Cartersville, GA

Gr 3–5—This introductory program focuses on the four closest planets to our sun. First, the sun is introduced and its important role in our solar system as well as its relative size and distance from Earth are explained. The atmosphere, size, composition, and temperature of Mercury, Venus, Earth, and Mars—the inner planets—are examined. Information gleaned from space probes is included. Terms such as orbit, gravity, inertia, rotation, and revolution are explained and illustrated. A combination of live-action footage, photographs, simple animation, and graphics illustrate the concepts. There are questions posed in the film and and opportunities for teachers to pause the program for group discussion. A review and a five-question assessment concludes the program. Extras include a glossary, access to slides, and a subtitle option. There are also extension activities and blackline masters. This basic introduction to the inner planets would be valuable for a beginning astronomy unit.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 7 Up—Filmmakers spent three years documenting the life of a Black-chinned Hummingbird who had built a nest on a clothesline in the backyard of their Las Vegas home. The female narrator's soft, accented voice is complemented by a delightful musical soundtrack. Outstanding photographic techniques show the life cycle of this diminutive bird, named Honey by the filmmakers. Divided into sections, the film follows Honey as she builds the nest, secures it with spider webs, lays two eggs, waits for them to hatch, feeds the babies, and encourages them to take flight approximately three weeks after birth. The close-up photography is amazing and a delight to watch. The second half of the program, a "making of" the documentary segment, will enlighten film students and photographers. A range of grade levels can utilize this film, and it will be especially useful in science classes. This documentary is joyous and viewers will be pleased that they were "invited into the hummingbird world."—Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Gr 7 Up—A number of threats facing the Earth's oceans and those creatures that depend on them, including humans, are investigated in this film that features five thematically-related episodes narrated by actor Matt Damon. For example, viewers learn that over-fishing has virtually driven the North Atlantic cod to extinction but that human intervention can have positive influences as well, as evidenced by the creation of marine sanctuaries in the Florida Keys and Belize. Other chapters cover the danger of rising sea levels to Bangladesh's rice farms and the effect of melting glaciers of the Andes Mountains which are the only source of water for irrigation. The DVD includes the full length film and an abridged version for use during shorter class periods. There is little in this program to distinguish it from other films about climate change.—Ryan Henry, Daviess County Public Library, Owensboro, KY

Gr 5–9—Kid-friendly computer-generated animation helps students review some of life science's main topics: photosynthesis, parts of a plant, the life cycle of a butterfly, groups of animals, plants and animal cells, food chains and webs, and genetic traits and adaptations. Marko, an animated pencil with an Italian accent, helps teach key concepts associated with each topic. A rock song comparing the functions of a plant's phloem and phylum provides a catchy way to learn the facts. One of the gems of the DVD is the practice test. Each multiple-choice question is examined in detail while test-taking strategies are taught. Study materials supporting the DVD's content are available at MarkoThePencil.com. Science teachers will find this a worthwhile resource.—Robyn Gioia, Bolles School, Ponte Vedra, FL

Gr 10 Up—The life and career of nuclear physicist Joseph Rotblat, who abandoned work on the Manhattan Project's development of the atomic bomb to follow his conscience, is documented in this inspiring film. He went on to study the medical uses of radiation and co-founded the Pugwash Conferences on Science and World Affairs, a group of scientists from around the world who were dedicated to preventing nuclear proliferation. Rosenblat helped create the modern peace movement and won a Nobel Peace Prize. Utilizing historical footage and interviews with Rotblat and his colleagues from around the world, this film sheds light on Cold War politics and a passionate, determined dissenter. The DVD version includes scene selection and can be shown in two parts for classroom use. Graphic images of the victims of atomic bombs and testing may disturb some viewers, but the film can be used with mature students as a springboard for discussions about scientific ethics and the importance of multinational cooperation.—Ryan Henry, Daviess County Public Library, Owensboro, KY

Gr 7 Up—This series examines the little-known story of Chinese-American achievement, integrating information about these individuals into the larger context of American history, and emphasizing their contributions to American society and culture, from the Chinese mariner who explored the western North American coast in 600 A.D. to Yo-Yo Ma's performance at President Obama's inauguration in 2009. Actor Archie Kao hosts and introduces each of the chronologically-arranged episodes. Some of the segments describe Chinese American participation in events such as the Gold Rush, the building of the Transcontinental Railroad, and World War II, while others discuss the legal and societal status of Chinese Americans, such as the Chinese Exclusion Act and court cases that expanded their civil rights. Most of the episodes profile individual Chinese Americans who made significant contributions in many fields. Some are well known, such as actor Bruce Lee, architect I. M. Pei, and novelist Amy Tan, but most will be unfamiliar to viewers, such as pioneer Polly Bemis and early film actress Anna May Wong. Visuals include period art, photos, newsreels, and contemporary footage. This series celebrates the contributions of chinese immigrants and their descendents and the influence of Chinese Americans today, and is a good choice for middle level and secondary collections.—Mary Mueller, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 9 Up—Condensing 4000 years of history into an hour-long documentary is nearly as challenging as answering the question: What is the secret to Jewish survival? This film accomplishes its task by concentrating on a few themes which have run through Jewish life since God spoke to Abraham: Jews as the people chosen by God, the Jewish people's use of the Ten Commandments and the Torah to maintain cohesion even when they were exiled, the power of Talmudic learning, the written tradition, responses to pogroms and anti-Semitism, and more. Historical photos, documents, and interviews help present this story of endurance. A distinguished group of scholars including Eli Wiesel, Rabbi Lawrence Schiffman, and Professor Alan Dershowitz marvel at the resilience and success of the people first to embrace monotheism. The Jews are represented from their origins in the five books of Moses through the Jewish Bible (the phrase "Old Testament" is not used), always having the ability to maintain their unique relationship with God and law. Despite millennia of struggles, exile, persecution, and the destruction of their central capital, they emerged intact. The film traces the history of the Jewish people from their enslavement in Egypt through the rule of the Babylonians, Romans, Muslims, Spanish, Soviets, and others. The Holocaust and the return to the ancient homeland of Israel are briefly covered. A hallmark of this documentary is its whirlwind pace which lacks political posturing or comparative religious philosophy. This accurate, concise history of Jewish survival, hosted by Martha Teichner, senior correspondent for CBS News Sunday Morning, is arranged chronologically. Teachers will want to preview the film and prepare definitions for some of the terms central to this history.—Robin Levin, Fort Washakie School/Community Library, MO

Gr 3–5—This unit on maps and map reading is divided into seven sections, beginning with an introduction to maps and an explanation of what maps are, and a comparison between different types and formats of maps. The presenter pauses from time to time to ask questions and allow students to brainstorm answers. The film can be paused to allow for class discussion at this point, and restarted to hear the presenter's response. In a section on reference points on Earth, latitude and longitude are introduced and well explained with graphics and examples. Students see how they are used to pinpoint places on Earth and assist GPS navigation. The concept of scale and the use of legends or keys are discussed in the section on map reading fundamentals, and topographic maps and elevation are covered in the last part. Practical applications are given for each topic. The film concludes with a brief summary and a fill-in-the-blank assessment. DVD options allow teachers to access slides, turn on English subtitles, and view vocabulary that is used in the presentation. A binder of teacher's resources includes correlation to national standards, pre- and post-viewing assessments and answer keys, a video script, suggested activities, and printable worksheets. This unit of study is adaptable and covers the topic succinctly.—MaryAnn Karre, Horace Mann Elementary School, Binghamton, NY

Gr 9 Up—Three rediscovered ethnographic films showcase some of the earliest images of Native Americans on celluloid. Largely the result of Rodman Wanamaker's photographic expeditions to document communities already known to be endangered by the encroaching tide of westward expansionism, these films were originally released between 1913 and 1921 and contain striking images of men, women, and children from various North American tribes. The Romance of a Vanishing Race (29 min.) presents an anthropologic sketch of daily activities of the Navajo, Pueblo, Crow, and Hopi tribes, including recreations of pipe-smoking rituals and battlefield skirmishes. Although the filmmakers take a view that is progressive for their time, recognizing the "gross injustice" widely inflicted upon Native Americans, the portrait presented here is greatly romanticized. The Rodman Wanamaker Expedition of Citizenship to the North American Indian (26 min.) showcases the dedication of the American flag during six ceremonies on different reservations across the United States. Winter Farm Life on a Crow Reservation focuses briefly on one tribe. This segment contains graphic footage of the butchering of a live cow and will be disturbing to some viewers. These films, re-mastered and presented with an original score, are effectively narrated. Shown to students in the context of broader study, they will provide a window into the complex relationship between white Americans and Native Americans at the turn of the century. They can also be used to springboard thought-provoking discussions about the nature of historical representation on film.—Meghann R. Matwichuk, University of Delaware, Newark

Gr 9 Up—The history of the Swahili people of the eastern coast of Africa is traced in this documentary by Kenny Mann, an author/educator/filmmaker who was born and raised in Kenya. The Swahili culture's importance in the sea trade of the Indian Ocean region is emphasized and the impact of Arabic and European cultures that came into contact with the Swahili people is shown. Energetic dancing and native music provides a lively pace. The female narrator speaks clearly, but the use of subtitles during some of the interviews with the native people would have been helpful. DVD extras include "Swahili History," an 11-minute interview with archaeologist Dr. Stephanie Wynn-Jones, and "The Swahili Coast: A Brief History," a PowerPoint presentation. This interesting introduction to the history of this remarkable group of people will have value for classes studying African history and culture.—Ryan Henry, Daviess County Public Library, Owensboro, KY

Gr 7 Up—-Paulette Mitchell, cookbook author and world traveler, hosts this look at two European countries that presents their diverse cuisine and food markets as well as information about their culture. In, viewers are introduced to the "Holy Trinity of Spanish cuisine"—oil, bread, and wine. In visits to Barcelona, Cartagena, and Cadiz, traditional regional foods are shown at the lively food markets. The tour of Italy features markets in Venice, Rome, Civitivecchia, Messina, the Tuscan countryside, and Florence and offers information about Italian cuisine as well as the country's history. In each locale, people are drawn by the colors, aromas, and experience of the markets. In both titles, the host chats with local residents about the markets, the cuisine, and their lives. Viewers may choose subtitles for the non-English portion of the audio or have full English subtitles throughout. Technical quality is superb. A colorful look at two countries where food is a way of life.—Denise A. Garofalo, Mount Saint Mary College, Newburgh, NY

Gr 9 Up—Named "Athlete of the Century" by ABC's Wide World of Sports, Jim Thorpe's remarkable life reflects the highest of highs and lowest of lows. Born in a two-room shack in rural Oklahoma just after the shameful relocation of many Native American tribes in the late 19th century, he attended Carlisle Indian School and rose to fame by winning gold medals in both the decathlon and pentathlon at the 1912 Summer Olympics. Those medals were recalled after it was learned that Thorpe had played two summers in semi-professional baseball, but were eventually restored in 1983, 30 years after his death. This comprehensive and moving biography covers his spectacular careers in football and baseball and reveals his triumph over numerous hardships. Included in the narrative is a disturbing summary our country's treatment of Native Americans through the last two centuries and details about Thorpe's demeaning movie roles as a stereotyped Indian. This fascinating program utilizes a striking collection of vintage stills and film footage, video re-creations, and interviews with family members and others who knew Thorpe to present his inspiring life. There is a chapter selection option and a through online teacher's guide (jimthorpefilm.com/guide/index.html). A portion of the profits from the sale of the film will be donated to a non-profit organization which provides funding to Native American filmmakers as well as those who create Native American-based content for PBS, which has scheduled showings of this film beginning in October 2009.—Dwain Thomas, formerly Lake Park High School, Roselle, IL

Many of these titles are available for download and/or in Playaway format. Check distributors' Web sites, playaway.com, and audio download retailers for availability and price.

Gr 1–3—Poor Andy. Dolores is going to have a birthday party on Halloween and Andy has to go. Things get more interesting when Andy and Dolores hatch a plan to catch the culprits who have been smashing Dolores's and other people's pumpkins. Andy's final trap not only catches the perpetrators but also ends up being an extra-special present for Dolores. Rachel Lillis reads Jennifer Richard Jacobson's short chapter book (Candlewick, 2006) for beginning readers. While it would have been nice to have a male narrator since the main character is Andy Shane, Lillis performs well. Some sound effects are difficult to distinguish or too short in duration. These minor quibbles aside, this is a solid purchase for any time of the year, and especially for Halloween.—Amy Olson, formerly Lexington Public Library, KY

Gr 4–7—As if adolescence isn't difficult enough by itself, 12-year-old Jason Blake is not a "neurotypical" (NT), he's autistic and interprets the world differently from other children. As a result, kids at school make fun of him and no one seems to understand him, including his family. Writing stories is one of Jason's few escapes, the one place where he can really be himself. After Jason begins a tentative relationship with Rebecca (PhoenixBird) on Storyboard, an online writing forum, he struggles with the fear of meeting her in person. Simultaneously, he narrates his past, giving listeners a glimpse of what life is like growing up as an autistic child. Tom Parks gives a near perfect performance of this eye-opening novel (S & S, 2009) by Nora Raleigh Baskin told from Jason's viewpoint. Always using just the right tone, he liberates the story's apprehension and wit. Poignant and real, the novel's honesty will bring tears to listeners' eyes. Recommended to fans of the Joey Pigza series.—Terry Ann Lawler, Phoenix Public Library, AZ

Gr 5 Up—Cynthia Rylant retells six Greek myths in this outstanding collection ((Harcourt, 2009). From Pandora's curiosity to the vanity of Narcissus, from Persephone's descent into the underworld to Orpheus's loss, and from Pygmalion's longings to the depth of Eros and Psyche's love, these timeless tales, with their fine balance of pathos, wit, and humanity, will appeal to a wide range of listeners. Rylant's highly accessible, poetic prose are read with just the right touches of compassion and vigor by Alyssa Bresnahan. The themes of love, self-exploration, deception, longing, and deliverance are retold without diluting the universal themes that have made the popularity of Greek myths endure for centuries.—Roxanne Spencer, Western Kentucky University Libraries, Bowling Green

Gr 9 Up—A conversation accidentally overheard leads to a body washing ashore in a small town on the Massachusetts shoreline. When the death of shy high school student Jason Green is deemed a suicide as a result of steroid use, his friend Terry, a 15-year-old boxer-in-training, begins to ask questions in this young adult novel (Philomel, 2008) by prolific adult mystery author Robert B. Parker. Something just doesn't click for Terry in the police statement. When he and his best friend Abby decide to investigate, they indirectly anger not only Kip, the local high school hot shot and bully, but also some important school officials. The teens determine that Jason may have actually been murdered. As their investigation progresses, Terry learns how to deal with the people around him, his own anger, and his growing feelings for Abby. His boxing lessons become a great resource to help him learn about himself. Scott Brick's narration is well done, and he distinguishes each character with changes in the cadence, depth, and gruffness of his voice. Some of the author's phrase choices and vocabulary occasionally make Terry sound older than 15. A supplemental purchase for fans of mystery and coming-of-age stories as well as reluctant readers.—Jessica Miller, New Britain Public Library, CT

Gr 4–7—Jeanne DuPrau's fourth Book of Ember (Random, 2008) begins shortly after the second book in the series, The People of Sparks (Random House, 2004; Listening Library, 2004). Times are hard and resources are scarce in the aboveground town of Sparks, so when a roamer arrives with a book that implies there was something important left for the people of Ember, Doon sees it as opportunity. Lina's desire for adventure wins out over her practical side, and she joins Doon on a return trip to the abandoned city of Ember. They return to their dark city to find that it isn't as dark or as empty as they thought. Fans of the first book, The City of Ember (Random, 2003), will enjoy this tale in which Lina and Doon must once again solve a mystery by using their ingenuity and survival skills and laying the groundwork to unite the various towns and villages across the land. Katherine Kellgren skillfully narrates this satisfying tale, giving distinctive voices to all the colorful characters. Fans of the previous titles will be rewarded with action, adventure, and a positive conclusion to the series.—Amanda Raklovits, Champaign Public Library, IL

Gr 3–6—William Dufris gives a lively performance of Jordan Sonnenblick's hilarious fantasy (Fiewel & Friends, 2008) about friendship and acceptance. Fifth-grader Willie Ryan doesn't play baseball well and has an overprotective mom. As a result, he's one of the least popular kids in school. In fact, the closest thing he has to a friend is Lizzy, a weird British girl. While walking home through the woods one day, Willie picks up an old fast-food bag which turns into a genie-style lamp. Within minutes out pops Dodger, a giant blue chimpanzee who can talk. However, Dodger isn't a genie (he prefers the term "bottled American") and can't grant wishes. Dodger follows Willie home, and so begins their zany adventures to help Willie attain his three "hearts desires" with comical results. Dufris's array of animated voices, including a very boyish Willie, adds even more kid appeal to this charming, off-the-wall tale that will have listeners giggling to the end.—Karen T. Bilton, Mary Jacobs Library, Rocky Hill, NJ

Gr 9 Up—Master storyteller and craftsman Walter Dean Myers has combined phenomenal writing, taut pacing, believable characters, street cred, an edge-of-your-seat plot, some urban fantasy, and a twist ending in this irresistible story (HarperTeen/Armistad, 2009), narrated with hypnotic intensity by JD Jackson. Lil J has spent his young life getting deeper and deeper into the drug scene, even though he tells himself he isn't really as messed up as the other guys he runs with. When a tricky drug deal goes bad and an undercover cop is shot, Lil J holes up in a crack house. In this foul-smelling dump, he hears a television. Following the sound, Lil J discovers Kelly, who holds a remote that projects the past and possible future choices on the TV screen. In a surreal, eerily Socratic debate, Kelly challenges Lil J to examine his life, his choices, and his visions of his past, present, and future by asking the question that haunts us all: If you could change something in your life, what would it be? As this compelling, quirky narrative unfolds in a series of flashbacks and possible future scenarios, listeners will be drawn into this provocative urban tale of drugs, despair, and the quest for redemption.—Roxanne Spencer, Western Kentucky University Libraries, Bowling Green

Gr 3–5—Leroy "Encyclopedia" Brown is the 10-year-old son of Idaville's chief of police. Whether solving a jewelry store robbery for his father while sitting at the dinner table or out in their garage running the Brown Detective Agency, this young super-sleuth keeps the criminal element at bay. In these ten stories (Dutton, 1969) by Donald J. Sobol, Encyclopedia twice confronts his juvenile adversary Bugs Meany, traps a tough teenager stealing money, and helps locate one of the FBI's most wanted fugitives. He also discredits a faked photograph, locates a valuable ring, and breaks the alibi of two thieves adrift at sea. With his partner Sally Kimball, he saves a child actor from an angry cook and exposes a scam artist. Greg Steinbruner provides expressive, well-paced narration, but doesn't give individual characters unique voices. The pause at the end of each story gives listeners the chance to solve the mystery before Encyclopedia Brown does. Mystery fans will enjoy matching wits with the young detective, and language arts teachers can anticipate lively discussions about possible solutions.—Mary Jean Smith, Southside Elementary School, Lebanon, TN

Gr 5–8—The opportunity to see a total solar eclipse draws thousands of people to the Moon Shadow campground. Wendy Mass's novel (Little, Brown, 2008) skillfully spins a tale combining an intriguing combination of fiction and astronomy, presented from the point of view of three distinct voices in alternating chapters. Home-schooled Ally is fascinated with astronomy, but her parents' abrupt announcement that they plan to sell the campground, the only life she has ever known, leaves her uncertain of her future to "secure immortality" by discovering a comet. Beautiful Bree, co-leader of her school's A clique, is mortified when her parents announce that they purchased Moon Shadow so they can continue their scientific research. But when her "inner geek" rears its head, she begins to wonder if there is more to life than making sure her lip gloss matches her purse. Jack's weight problem and low self-esteem keep him from being popular, and his preference for drawing graphic comics and reading science fiction cause him to fail science class. Consequently, he is sentenced to summer school, but snaps at the chance to join a tour bus of eclipse chasers, led by his science teacher, in exchange for documenting his experience. The three teens converge on the campground, each discovering something new about themselves and their place in the world. Ally, Bree, and Jack are well-drawn characters and are brought to life by the exceptional narration of Jessica Almasy, Ali Ahn, and Mark Turetsky. This compelling combination of scientific information and fiction is almost as rare as a solar eclipse.—Cheryl Preisendorfer, Twinsburg City Schools, OH

Gr 9 Up—For Mary and the rest of the villagers, the past is unknown and the present is dangerous and bleak. Villagers live in constant fear behind fences, separated from The Forest of Hands and Teeth and the clamoring Unconsecrated, zombie-like creatures that appear human, whose appetite for human flesh is insatiable. The village is governed by the mysterious, spiritual, yet somewhat sinister Sisterhood, and protected by the Guardians. When the Unconsecrated breach the fence and decimate the village, Mary and five other survivors are forced to flee through the forest, with the Unconsecrated close on their heels. They cling to each other and to Mary's belief that there is something better beyond the forest. Love, conflict, terror, life and death are all powerful elements within this well-developed, riveting sci-fi/horror story (Delacorte, 2009) by Carrie Ryan. Vane Millon's narration is flawless as the voice of Mary. Pacing is excellent and the switch between characters is seamless, with each individual given a distinct voice. Listeners will be kept on the edge of their seats right up to the ending which leaves plenty of room for a possible sequel.—Mary Oluonye, Shaker Heights Public Library, OH

Gr 5–8—Gilda Joyce is back with another mystery in the latest installment (Dutton, 2009) in Jennifer Allison's popular series. This psychic investigator in training, with a penchant for spy savvy fashions and hairdos, has slightly exaggerated her actual age (she said she was 15) so that she could get a summer internship at the International Spy Museum in Washington, D.C. When a spot as a counselor in the Museum's Spy Camp opens up, Gilda convinces the director to give her a shot. After visiting a former Russian spy's home to retrieve items he is donating to the Museum, odd things begin to happen. Gilda also begins having psychic dreams and, while investigating a cemetery where Abraham Lincoln's son was once buried, discovers secret "dead drop" messages. She follows the clues with some assistance from her campers, and ultimately uncovers a CIA mole. As the pieces begin to come together, listeners are treated not only to fully-voiced and entirely convincing characters but also to glimpses inside the world of spies, our nation's capital, and historical references to Lincoln. Narrator Jessica Almasy is perfectly cast as Gilda Joyce. While part of a series, this title stands firmly on its own and would make for a fun listening experience.—Stephanie A. Squicciarini, Fairport Public Library, NY

Gr 4–7—Can getting hit by a bus change your life for the better? Chloe Wells survives the accident with injuries serious enough to keep her in the children's ward of the hospital for several weeks. As a homeschooled student of intellectual parents, she is brilliant at solving math equations, but not as skilled at making friends. She has always been protected by her close-knit family, like a hothouse flower, and they are her entire social circle. When she makes friends with two children her own age in the hospital, Chloe learns more about herself and wonders why she hasn't been successful at making friends until now. During her stay, she also overhears her mother and grandfather talking about a family secret that involves her and vows to get the truth from them. British author Rose Impey (Orchard Books, UK, pap. 2007) has created a wonderfully complex preteen character in Chloe, and listeners will be delighted to meet this smart and funny girl. The math facts and puzzles that Impey has included as part of Chloe's story make this novel a rare treat. Sophie Aldred narrates flawlessly in an appealing British accent. For upper elementary and middle school girls, especially those who are homeschooled or interested in math.—Casey LaPlante, East Windsor Middle School, CT

Gr 4–6—On a cold winter's night, Cara and her grandmother take refuge in a church after a mysterious man begins to follow them. Inside, Cara encounters an elderly woman who helps her cross a magical border into Luster, the Land of the Unicorns. Soon after arriving there, Cara meets Lightfoot, one of the many unicorns who inhabit Luster, along with other mystical creatures. Cara's magical new friends help her deliver a message to the Queen of the Unicorns. The narrator relates the plot in even, measured tones, allowing the full-cast of actors to express the characters' emotions. Sound effects cleverly convey how Lightfoot communicates with Cara in a telepathic manner. Their unspoken conversations are read with a hollow, echoing effect, underscoring the magical nature of these exchanges. Music provides transitions between chapters, with the tone and tempo of the music changing according to the events presented. The music is generally ethereal and delicate, creating an otherworldly feeling that is well suited for the fantasy genre. A solid choice for public and school libraries where fantasy series are popular.—Mary Landrum, Lexington Public Library, KY

Gr 5–8—Percy Jackson is back in another adventure and so is Jesse Bernstein, who masterfully voices all the characters. He captures their individual inflections and perfectly conveys their annoyance, arrogance, innocence, and even humor. In the final book (Hyperion/Disney, 2009) in Rick Riordan's series, Percy is pitted against his old nemesis Luke who has been transformed into Kronos, the Lord of Time. An attack on New York City is planned so that Kronos can destroy Mount Olympus. Percy ultimately gets all of the cabins from Camp Half-Blood to participate in the battle which is intense and deadly for both sides. There are a number of prophecies resolved in this tale (including what will happen when Percy turns 16) and new ones to ponder as the story closes. Romance is in Percy's life, with his relationships with Annabeth and Rachel, and much is disclosed about Luke's early life and his relationship with Annabeth. This is a more emotional journey than some of the earlier books, and Bernstein lingers over some of the moments of loss and grief, but picks up the pace during the many ferocious battle scenes. An exciting addition for Jackson fans.—Edie Ching, Washington Latin Public Charter School, DC

PreS-Gr 2—Pirates! Shipwrecks! Lion attacks! Chicken-napping! Louise is a chicken with a yen for adventure. She slips away from the humdrum world of the farm and sets out to sea, only to be captured by pirates and nearly fricasseed. Home sounds good, but adventure calls again as she joins the circus and does a daring high-wire act that ends with her nearly becoming a lion's lunch. Again the farm seems a safe retreat, but when you have drumsticks itching for adventure you know you'll be off again. This time our saucy French hen follows in the footsteps of classic adventurers such as Indiana Jones, visits a fortune-teller, is captured by a tall dark stranger, and frees fellow chickens so that they, too, can cluck free! When she returns home, she tells the other chickens of her adventures and they are appropriately impressed and horrified. Home is a welcome, safe, refuge—but can Louise really settle down there? This delightful feathered frolic by Kate DiCamillo (HarperCollins/Joanna Cotler Books, 2008) is masterfully performed by Barbara Rosenblat who reads the story with fine pacing and energy and creates unique personalities, voices, and accents for each character. Light background music and sound effects make this a treat for the ears as well as the imagination. As students enjoy the vocal presentation, they can also peruse Harry Bliss's hilarious illustrations, filled with quirky details (some of which only adults will catch). This fine feathered feast for eyes and ears will be enjoyed by those with a thirst for adventure.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 5–8—Philip Reeve's third title (Bloomsbury, 2008) in the "Larklight" series is another winner. Non-stop action, laugh-out-loud humor, and a whole lot of quirkiness load this Victorian space adventure with appeal. This outing finds Art, Myrtle, the space pirate Jack, and the rest of their family and crew battling a tremendous horde of giant moths flown by blue lizard creatures. Their leader is a powerful "Shaper" whose strength appears to be too much for even the Larklight heroes. Narrator Greg Steinbruner is fabulous, perfectly capturing the personality of each character. Art's voice is confident and eager while Myrtle's prissy vocals make for several hilarious listening moments. Both fans of the series and new listeners will be delighted by this installment. Jolly good fun.—Deanna Romriell, Salt Lake City Public Library, UT

Gr 7 Up—Scarlet thinks the she is just a normal 15-year-old girl, until the day she steps through a door and finds herself in another country. There, in the hands of a sadistic monk in service to an ancient evil, she learns that she is one of five Gatekeepers who hold the fate of the world in their hands. From that point on, Scarlet's life is fraught with danger as she journeys to Hong Kong and becomes surrounded by sinister strangers and nothing is as it seems. The other Gatekeepers, now aware of Scarlet's existence, must travel to meet her. In doing so, they face monumental peril at the hands of the Old Ones and the sinister Nightrise Corporation who will stop at nothing to keep the Gatekeepers from joining forces to save the world. In this installment (Scholastic, 2009) of Anthony Horowitz's series, the Gatekeepers are brought together, and an explosive cliffhanger ending will leave fans anxious for the final volume. Horowitz does an excellent job of weaving backstory from the first three books into the text, and Simon Prebble brings the story to life with his expert inflection and cadence. A suspenseful tale sure to keep listeners on the edges of their seats.—Misti Tidman, Boyd County Public Library, Ashland, KY

Gr 3–6—Tamara Ann Simpson has a problem—10-year-old Muscle Man McGinty. It's the summer of 1969, and Neil Armstrong is about to take his first steps on the moon. Muscle Man has moved to Tamara's street, into her former best friend's house, and has the audacity to be the world's biggest liar. While it aggravates Tamara that no one else seems to notice his whoppers, she takes her irritation too far and lets it nearly consume her. A tragedy, a true story, and a heart-felt plea may be able to change her mind before it's too late. The characters that inhabit Ramble Street are voiced by Emily Bauer. She has a good grasp of Tamara's personality. While her voices for some of the boys are not completely unique, it doesn't detract from the story because the neighborhood kids are almost the Greek chorus and, as such, at times speak as one voice. Nan Marino's debut novel (Roaring Brook Press, 2009) is poignant and witty.—Laura Davies, Kenton County Public Library, Independence, KY

Gr 5–8—Rick Riodan's latest entry (Hyperion/Disney, 2009) in the series is for those Percy Jackson fans who just can't get enough of his life as a demigod. It includes short adventures involving a stolen chariot, a bronze dragon, and a sword of Hades as well as interviews with some of the most famous characters—Connor, Travis, Clarisse, Annabeth, Grover and, of course, Percy. Some surprises are disclosed, such as the fact that Annabeth keeps a teddy bear in her camp trunk as well as anti-spider bug spray. Percy also reveals his scariest moment and Zeus talks about his home town and weapon of choice. The book begins with a letter of warning from Camp Half-Blood written and read by the author to would-be demigods about the dangers involved not only in Percy's world but also for listeners. Narrator Jesse Bernstein then takes over, picking up the pace in each of the adventures.—Edith Ching, Washington Latin Public Charter School, DC

Gr 8 Up—Kelly Link's offbeat, quirky collection (Viking, 2008) of nine short stories, ranging from fantasy to horror to sci-fi, features ordinary teens who find themselves in bizarre and unusual situations. Unexpected plot twists, deadpan humor, and magic are abundant. Link, in her first collection for young adults, dances around the edge of reality in each story and leaves the endings wide open. It's almost as if the stories end a beat or two before they should, and many listeners will be left wondering, how did that happen? Listening a second time may lead to buried clues that help explain each tale's conclusion. For example, in "The Wrong Grave," Miles tries to retrieve the only copy of poems he wrote for his now dead girlfriend. Could he really have made a mistake and unearthed the wrong casket? In "Magic for Beginners," Jeremy and his friends are avid fans of the TV series The Library which has no set schedule and runs on different networks. Is the show or Jeremy's life reality? These strange, twisted plots also touch on teen issues of friendship, first love, adolescence, and more. Each unique story has a different narrator who expertly conveys its humor, suspense, and terror. These seasoned readers, including Christina Moore, Andy Paris, and Alyssa Bresnahan, among others, employ skilled pacing and a straightforward tone which adds to the surreal nature of the stories. Fans of macabre tales and works by Neil Gaiman will find much to enjoy.—Wendy Woodfill, Hennepin County Library, Minnetonka, MN

Gr 1–3—Robin Pulver's clever picture book (Holiday House, 2003), illustrated with Lynn Rowe Reed's vibrant, child-like acrylic paintings, shows youngsters exactly what would happen if there were no punctuation marks. Mr. Wright's class discovers the value of punctuation and just how difficult life can be without the little fellows. Feeling distinctly unappreciated, the commas, question marks, periods, and apostrophes take a well-deserved vacation to Take-a-Break Lake, leaving the school in big trouble. Mr. Wright and his charges find that "Nothing makes sense without punctuation." The punctuation marks finally return, and the book ends with a list of punctuation rules. John Beach narrates in a gleeful, ebullient tone. Chris Kubie composed the sprightly music. This is that rare audiobook that truly makes the print version come alive. The sound effects alone are priceless, with homage to Grammy Award-winner Bobby McFerrin. If you've ever wondered what punctuation marks sound like, Beach provides hilarious voices and sound effects for each one. A masterful, creative, amusing, must-have production that simplifies the rules of punctuation.—Lonna Pierce, MacArthur Elementary School, Binghamton, NY

Gr 9 Up—With humor, insight, and tugs on the heart, Deb Caletti's novel (S & S/Simon Pulse, 2009) takes Quinn, a high school senior, on "a karmic quest." Accompanied by her 11-year-old sister and their older half sister, the three set out on a journey to return items their narcissistic dad, Barry, stole from their mothers and the other women he has loved. In addition to righting what she believes are Barry's past wrongs, Quinn is trying to understand her dad and figure out Jake, a guitar-playing guy riding with the girls on his way to a gig. Each woman they meet tells a story about their dad and life lessons learned about men. Not only do the girls succeed in returning all the stolen objects, they also establish a sibling connection. For Quinn, an honest appraisal of her father's faults and trust for Jake help her develop realistic expectations for both relationships. With good comic timing plus sad and snappy teen patter, narrator Jeannie Stith draws listeners into the lives of the characters. Spot-on dialogue and musings reveal the authentic emotions of young people coping with divorce and the revolving door of people moving in and out of their lives. Occasional, but completely appropriate four letter words are just one of many demonstrations of Caletti's grasp of contemporary teens. Part cautionary tale, part exploration of modern relationship issues, this novel will resonant for anyone trying to define "Prince Charming," and will be a hit in high school and public libraries.—Barbara Wysocki, Cora J. Belden Library, Rocky Hill, CT

Gr 3–5—Smelly Isabelly! This chant is music to the ears of fourth-grader Scab McNally, aspiring inventor and Isabelle's devious twin brother, as he tries to earn enough money to buy a dog. He has created a new product that's a hit with guys—Sister-Be-Gone spray—and full of noxious ingredients. Things are going swimmingly (and he is earning lots of cash for the dog) until the sister repellent leaks in the classroom. Events and revelations cascade from there and serve as catalysts for changes for the underachieving Scab and the overachieving Isabelle. Plenty of gross-out humor that kids will love is incorporated with coming-of-age elements. Trudi Trueit's well-constructed tale (Aladdin, 2009) will have kids eagerly anticipating what will happen next. Narrator Oliver Wyman interprets the characters well. A fun listen.—Terri Crowe, Daviess County Public Library, Owensboro, KY

Gr 9 Up—Chloe, 15, can see and talk to the dead in Kelly Armstrong's novel (HarperCollins, 2008). The forward, a vignette from 12 years earlier, reveals that she was a necromancer at age 3, but her powers were repressed for most of her childhood and resurfaced again at menarche. A terrifying encounter with a gruesome ghost causes an outburst that lands Chloe in Lyle House, a facility for troubled teens. There she meets others whose special powers are eventually revealed as they attempt to discover the secrets surrounding the institution. This supernatural mystery may appeal to Harry Potter or Twilight fans, but it's a poor imitation. The story ends abruptly with no closure whatsoever—listeners will have to wait for the next episode in the series. The youthful sounding narrator, Cassandra Morris, makes little use of voice changes, so sometimes it's a bit difficult to discern which character is speaking. A technical decision to bookmark tracks on the CD to correspond with the book's chapters makes the tracks overly long and backtracking tedious.—Patricia McClune, Conestoga Valley High School, Lancaster, PA

Gr 4–7—The adventures of Amy Cahill and her younger brother Dan continue as they race against their relatives to find the clues to a "treasure" in the third book (Scholastic, 2009) in the series written by Peter Lerangis. Narrator David Pittu masterfully presents each character at his/her ugliest, be it the carping between Amy and Dan, or the superior attitudes of their competing relatives, accents and all. What is new to the mix in this story is the sound of compassion that he masters, such as in the voice of Uncle Alistair, who suddenly seems to be on the children's side, willing to help them in their quest and even risk his own safety. There's also affection and a budding romance between Amy and her arch rival, cousin Ian, which is gently handled by Pittu, giving just a hint of surprise, reluctance, and attraction in the voices of these strong willed and usually hostile characters. Most of the action is set in Japan and revolves around clues left by the famous general Tokoyoto Hideohshi, another relative. This episode is more of a psychological thriller, with the young Cahills constantly wondering whom they can trust and unlikely alliances being formed. Two surprise twists at the end are masterful, and a bonus feature includes a phone conversation with the mysterious man in black. Next stop, Egypt.—Edith Ching, Washington Latin Public Charter School, DC

Gr 6–10—Ben Mikaelsen's novel (Rayo, 2004) is based on a true, first person account of the Guatemalan genocide that occurred in the early 1980s. The story begins in a remote Guatemalan village where Gabriela is known as Tree Girl because she loves to climb trees to be closer to heaven. One day, high in the trees, she witnesses the horrors of guerilla warfare—brutal torture, rape, and mass murder. The descriptions of the soldiers' actions are graphic and disturbing. During the celebration of Gabi's Quinceaños, soldiers insult her family and abduct her older brother. Later she witnesses her teacher being beaten to death and the shooting of her classmates. Almost her entire village and family are murdered. On her way to a refugee camp in Mexico, she helplessly watches the heinous death of every person and animal in a village while clinging to a tree limb for two days. Gabi eventually arrives at a squalid refugee camp in Mexico where she reunites with her younger sister and eventually starts a school for refugee children. The somber voice of Amber Sealey is perfect for Gabi, and she smoothly integrates the Latino words of the Indio dialect into the flow of the story. An author's note explains that Gabi's real identity is secret and, after leaving the refugee camp, she returned to Guatemala and is living in a safe house. Throughout the book, and in the endnote, the U.S. government is clearly held responsible for training and arming the military that committed these violent acts. Teens will want to learn more about these historical events after listening to this heart-wrenching audiobook.—Patricia McClune, Conestoga Valley High School, Lancaster, PA

Gr 6–10—Succinct free verse poems (Holt, 2009) by Margarita Engle relate this interesting, little known piece of world history. After Kristallnacht, pogroms staged in 1938 by the Nazis against the Jews in Germany, Daniel's parents have just enough money to buy him a ticket and get him out of the country. Daniel, 13, arrives in Cuba in 1939 aboard a refugee ship that was first turned away from Canada and then from the U.S. The boy is one of the thousands of Jews to receive sanctuary in Cuba during the Holocaust. After Pearl Harbor, Cuban officials grow concerned about espionage and imprison German Christians. The red "J" on Daniel's passport that condemned him in Germany, ironically saves him now. An older Russian Jewish refugee, David, and a young Cuban girl, Paloma, befriend Daniel and the three work together to try to save an elderly couple from persecution. Paloma has secrets and her father, El Gordo, is a corrupt official who defrauds refugees and holds them hostage to his greedy monetary demands. The full-cast narration gives an authentic and distinct voice to each character and will engage listeners. This is historical fiction at its best. A personal note read by the author relates the history of the era and her own family story.—Patricia McClune, Conestoga Valley High School, Lancaster, PA

PreS-Gr 3—Award-winning children's recording artist Debi Derryberry has produced an album of five new songs and four favorites—all original songs that she sings in a clear, light soprano that soars. Performed in various musical styles, including calypso, reggae, jazz, and folk rock, the songs are accompanied by guitar, slide guitar, organ, drums, bongos, piano, violin, cello, saxophone, and dumbek. Several tunes focus on Derryberry's newest creation, "Baby Banana" and his unusual family—Momma Duck and Daddy Gorilla. Baby Banana appears in "I Wish You Could Fly with Me," "Happiest Day," "Oodle the Orangutan," and "Tropical Fruit." Other song topics include ice cream, chameleons, freckles, and slumberland. On the last track, Derryberry reads her picture book, Baby Banana and the Licorice Tree. A fun album.—Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

Gr 1–3—Singer/songwriters Shari and Jerry Tallon have been performing their musical "The Dinosaur Rock" across Canada for more than 20 years. The story of a band that is transported back to the time of the dinosaurs where they search for the "rock" from rock 'n' roll is presented. Eleven original songs teach children about the Ankylosaurus as well as life lessons such as the importance of brushing your teeth, helping your mom, not letting bullies make you feel bad, and more. There are also well-known oldies such as "Alley Oop," "Wooly Bully," and "Louie Louie." While the songs' solid lyrics often impart important lessons, the production values of the recording frequently makes it difficult to understand all of the words. The dialogue between the songs is not always clear and is overwhelmed by sound effects making the plot difficult to follow. The bonus CD is provided so librarians can have an additional copy for kids to borrow. The activity book includes language arts and math exercises, coloring sheets, and instructs for making popsicle stick characters. A supplementary purchase.—Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 3—John Carlin wrote these 14 songs, performed in excellent form on guitars, banjo, mandolin, violin. keyboards, flute, saxophone, drums, and other percussion instruments. The harmonica solos are especially well-executed. Diverse musical styles include rock, calypso, bossa nova, country, and blues. "Jambalaya Road" is an imaginary place to go on rainy days. "Everybody's Rollin'" celebrates all sorts of wheeled transportation. Other songs cover such topics as the playground, playing tag, dinosaurs, flying, families, and homes. A fun and lively addition to music collections.—Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

Gr 2–4—In Wendy Macdonald's fictionalized account (Charlesbridge, 2009) of an experiment to determine the speed of falling objects, Massimo is waiting for his uncle's boat to pass underneath a bridge so he can drop his lunch: a wheel of cheese and a loaf of bread. Standing on the bridge, he meets Professor Galileo who becomes very interested in the farm boy's activity when he notices that both items appear to reach the boat at the same time. Galileo begins to question the theory that heavy objects fall faster than light ones—could Aristotle be wrong? During several additional encounters, the two team up to conduct experiments from the bell tower—the Leaning Tower of Pisa—and they invite the townspeople to watch. The story ends happily when Galileo asks Massimo to become his student at the university. Paolo Rui's acrylic illustrations enhance the story. The CD, narrated by Matthew Arkin, is well-paced and features appropriate background music. However, students should read the author's note in the book for it's explanation of acceleration and speed and the fact that there is no proof that Galileo's experiment actually occurred. A solid introduction for science units in which gravity and the speed of falling objects are explored.——Stephanie Farnlacher, Trace Crossings School, Hoover, AL

Gr 2–5—Brian Floca's marvelous nonfiction picture book (Atheneum/Richard Jackson Bks., 2009) relates the story of NASA's 1969 Apollo 11 mission to the moon. His simple, straightforward text begins on Earth, with pictures of the distant moon. The three astronauts who will become the first people to walk on the moon are introduced, and Floca clearly describes how they prepared for and executed this historic mission. Floca's beautiful illustrations highlight the text. Narrator Asa Dorfman reads in a clear, crisp tone that combines the excitement of the space mission with the reasonable tones of an adult explaining complex matters to children. This delivery effectively captures the text's expository style, while relating the stages in the project at a pace young readers can follow. Sound effects underscore the action without overpowering the narration. For example, the rockets rumble in the background, getting louder as Apollo 11 approaches liftoff. Dorfman pauses to let the rockets reach full blast, then carries on as Apollo 11 reaches outer space. Ethereal electronic music enhances the telling. An excellent choice for school and public libraries.—Mary Landrum, Lexington Public Library, KY

Gr 4–8—Alice Fleming's biography (Rosen, 2004) of Frederick Douglass opens with a dramatic account of the young slave fighting back against a brutal master. It then discusses his birth into slavery, early years as a slave, and eventual escape, emphasizing his independent spirit and his determined pursuit of education. Douglass's lengthy career as an abolitionist writer and speaker, civil rights activist, and federal office holder is also covered, with an explanation of how his lifelong commitment to fighting racism and discrimination influenced his actions. Some details about his personal life are also included. In addition to the biographical material, Fleming provides considerable background about slavery, sectionalism, and the causes of the Civil War so that listeners can place Douglass's legacy into the larger context of American history. Sesame Street regular Roscoe Orman does an outstanding job of reading the text, and his deep voice is both authoritative and pleasant. His narration is occasionally interrupted by tones, which signal a change in the text, and another male voice reads the sidebars that accompany the book's regular text. This production will help middle-level students understand Douglass's role in ending slavery and creating the foundation for African-American suffrage and civil rights.—Mary Mueller, Librarian, Rolla Junior High School, MO

Gr 4–8—For many, Paul Revere is merely an American folk hero as told in Henry Wadsworth Longfellow's poem, "Listen my children and you shall hear of the midnight ride of Paul Revere.…" But he was much more. Revere was a manifestation of revolutionary times, a member of an influential group of patriots, and a man who had to deal with the hardships of colonial life. Through primary source documents, including letters and diary entries, listeners learn about this Boston-born man who was a family man, a business man, a soldier, and a spy who met and mingled with our emerging country's elite and carried on as a member of a secret society. The narrative does a nice job of framing Revere within the larger context of civil unrest and tumultuous times. Nicely paced and clearly framed, this audio version of Paul Revere's life by Ran Randolph also offers sidebars that provide additional information. A worthy compendium to acquaint students with one of the individuals who helped shape America.—Robyn Gioia, Bolles School, Ponte Vedra, FL

Gr 4–7—This solid presentation of the book by Josepha Sherman (Rosen, 2003) examines the life of Samuel de Champlain, a French adventurer who devoted his life to exploring, mapping, and settling North America, particularly Quebec and the surrounding country. The author provides an intriguing look at not only the life and experiences of this early explorer, but also the political drama and budget battles that affected the ability of explorers such as de Champlain to function. Informational "notes" sections highlighting related topics are included and are clearly delineated from the rest of the text. Narrator Eileen Stevens does a nice job of pacing and supplies an appropriate level of enthusiasm for the topic. If possible, have the book handy so students can peruse the maps and illustrations. An engaging and educational listen.—Deanna Romriell, Salt Lake City Public Library, UT

PreS-K—Young children who are just learning to read will be amused while they learn basic reading skills. Each disc contains six well-known Mother Goose rhymes and three early literacy activities for each rhyme. The rhymes include "Three Blind Mice," "Jack and Jill," "Hickory Dickory Dock," "Old Mother Hubbard," "Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater," and "Old King Cole," among others. Users are encouraged to select a rhyme and listen to it being read while individual words are highlighted as they are spoken. Then, the narrator prompts users to either listen to the rhyme again or to click on objects in the illustration which activates them and calls up the written words. When a letter is clicked on, the name and the sound of the letter is given. By selecting the "Activities" icon, users are directed to a list of activities that are specific to each rhyme. "Begins with…" prompts users to search the illustration for objects beginning with a specific letter. In "Find me…," questions are asked about the content of the rhyme and players must click on the correct object in the illustration. In "Rhyme Time," users select a rhyming word. Adult help is needed to get started, but soon children will be able to move around independently. The narrated instructions are clear, precise, and abundant. Users are gently encouraged to keep trying when a mistake is made. The illustrations are bright and appealing, and the simple animation is humorous and engaging. This attractive series offers much in the way of solid early literacy experiences, especially phonics, and will be a terrific asset for classes of young children as well as ELL students.—Wendy Woodfill, Hennepin County Library, Minnetonka, MN

K-Gr 1—This is one of a series of books by Lynn Stone that combines fabulous close-up nature photography with simple text. This title, released here in ebook format, examines how animals use their mouths to eat, drink, fight, and carry their young. Students and entire classes can read along with the book, which plays instantly and does not need installation. Instructions are given for installing to a server, so that the book can be shared by many classrooms or teachers, as long as it is used at a single-school site. The glossary, which is accessible from any page, "defines" the animals mentioned in the book, but no other terms are explained. The book can be read in English or Spanish only, or in both languages. Words are highlighted as they are read. The translation is not always exactly word-for-word, and while the meaning is the same, some ESL students may find that confusing. Pages turn automatically, but readers have the option to pause, go back, or go forward. Stone's amazing pictures—from the newly-hatched young pelican reaching into its mother's mouth to feed to the snake swallowing a rat head-first—will captivate youngsters. The strong text-to-photo match will encourage young readers to turn off the narration and read on their own as they learn about nature and the animal world.—MaryAnn Karre, Horace Mann Elementary School, Binghamton, NY