Multimedia Review

Gr 7 Up—Artist/teacher Peggy Flores demonstrates how tissue paper can be used to create works of art. The appropriate tools and supplies are shown. Step-by-step demonstrations explain how to cut or tear the tissues paper and brush it with water mixed with white glue to create still lifes, landscapes, abstract works, and beautiful stained glass. In certain processes, paint can be added for effect. Flores also teaches some basic design techniques, such as shading, creating texture, and overlapping to create the illusion of distance. This upbeat presentation will motivate viewers to experiment with this medium to create their own works of art. Although recommended for secondary classes, these basic concepts could easily be adapted for use with younger students.—Jeana Actkinson, Bridgeport High School, TX

PreS—The alphabet is the star of the sportscast in this program featuring puppet characters and a few animated segments. Sports announcers Champ Smart and Lisa Learnwell provide play-by-play for 26 different events covering various aspects of sports such as pep talks, cheerleading, ice skating, hockey, soccer, football, baseball, basketball, and golf. Following each brief event, the announcers show a highlight from it that showcases the featured letter of the alphabet. Many of the words, such as diamond and soccer ball, will be familiar to preschoolers, while others might need to be explained. At half-time, the marching band reviews the letters while playing music. During the segments featuring Coach Chalkboard, there are brief lessons on good sportsmanship and teamwork. The variety of puppets used is fun, but occasionally the puppeteers' fingers and hands are visible. The sports theme works well in this context, This film will be enjoyed most by youngsters with some knowledge of the alphabet. A nice addition to larger collections.—Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

PreS—There's a new dinosaur in Barney's neighborhood—a music-loving, orange hadrosaur named Riff who decides to organize a "Best Friends Club." He explores the possibilities of starting a nature club, a baseball club, a dance club, a book club, and a music club, among others. Nothing seems quite right until he finally decides upon a club where members can do whatever makes them happy. Production numbers are sprinkled throughout to break up the story sequences and move it forward. Barney, Baby Bop, BJ, and Riff tell the story using flashbacks to fill in Riff's history, with some help from children. Staging and backgrounds are excellent. A bonus episode, "Big Band Night," features Fifi Forget-Me-Not and the Flowertots in their own musical adventure. Viewers have the option of listening to dialogue in English or in Spanish. While Barney's luster has dimmed somewhat over the years, he is still loved by many tikes who will also embrace Riff.—Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

PreS-Gr 2—Bob the Builder and his crew continue their adventures in six new animated episodes where they work on building the beach town of Bobland Bay. The fun begins when Lofty tries to build a house for Bob because his construction trailer will be near the bay. Lofty's vision doesn't quite become a reality, but the entire crew helps to build Bob a beautiful house and they all learn that the most important thing is being part of a team. Along the way, the crew also builds a drive-in movie theater and a skate park, and help a lighthouse keeper. Five new members of the Can-Do-Crew are introduced including Packer, a delivery truck, and Tumbler, a full-size cement mixer. The importance of teamwork, respect, and hard work are emphasized. A fine addition to the series.—Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

PreS—Muppet-style puppets, multiethnic actors, songs, and short vignettes combine to teach youngsters that biting is not an appropriate response when they are cranky, sad, or tired. Set in a preschool classroom, various muppet children get into quarrels with each other and the teacher must intervene to prevent one child from biting another. "Don't Bite," a simple folk song accompanied by guitar and sung by two adults, is featured throughout. One nice background touch is a book display unit with several well-known, award-winning picture books. The bonus segment features a day-care provider speaking to parents and teachers about how to handle biting problems among children. This simple, focused production will be a good resource for teachers and parents.—Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS-K—Hosted by puppets Buster the dog and Gato the cat, viewers are introduced to a wide array of musical instruments such as the trombone, violin, banjo, accordion. and kazoo. Each instrument is shown with its name in large, brightly colored letters and accompanied by the music it plays. Boys and girls of various ages provide additional information about the trumpet, drums, and piano. Basic musical concepts including softly and loudly, the musical staff, and scales are included. Additional non-music related concepts are also woven into the program, such as primary colors (the drum changes colors), numbers (guess the correct number of kazoos), the alphabet, and simple Spanish vocabulary. Although only a brief amount of time is spent on each concept, the overall music theme is nicely carried through and the production is enjoyable. A fine purchase for collections where there is a need for information about musical instruments and basic concepts for young children.—Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

Gr 4–8—This engaging series features youngsters hosting video blogs on "The Six Pillars of Character": trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship. Each blog contains insightful discussions by a diverse group of students as well as brief documentaries and skits involving realistic scenarios. The best elements are the segments in which the actions taken by young people reflect positive character triats. For example, The Fairness Connection features a teen court at an Indiana middle school that must decide on a just punishment for a bully, and a baseball player who organized a home-run derby to help raise money for uniforms for an opposing team from a poor neighborhood. Another powerful real-life example is highlighted in The Responsibility Connection: an eighth-grade student who had been a bully now takes responsibility for her actions and turns her life around, focusing on becoming a good student and a responsible citizen. The cast throughout is believable and engaging, including a girl in The Respect Connection who does a hilarious impression of rude diners talking on their cell phone, and the video blog host for The Fairness Connection who sums up her blog by quoting Gandhi. The students' language is authentic, the examples are engaging, the style is clever and lively, and viewers will relate to these young people. Useful in a wide range of classes, including guidance and social studies.—David Bilmes, Schaghticoke Middle School, New Milford, CT

Gr 6 Up—Seven strategies for dealing with cyberbullies are presented in this two-part program. The 12-minute segment is intended for students, while the 7-minute portion for parents and educators explains the adult's role in preventing digital bullying. Most of the strategies are commonsense approaches, such as protecting your password, guarding your personal information, and using safety software. However, there are some more provocative suggestions, such as "Know the e-bully" and "Say 'No' to Revenge." The attention-grabbing opening scene features a middle school student telling his friends how his older sister has been a victim of cyberbullying. He holds up his cell phone, which plays a video of her explaining what happened. The majority of the scenarios aren't as interesting, and consist primarily of diverse groups of young adults sending text messages. The statistics presented will grab viewers' attention: 40 percent of teens report having been a victim of cyberbullying, 80 percent claim cyberbullying is just joking around, and only 10 percent of kids tell their parents that they have been victims. The segment directed to parents and educators is very helpful, discussing signs to look for in youngsters who are being cyberbullied and the importance of monitoring their youngsters' computer use.—David Bilmes, Schaghticoke Middle School, New Milford, CT

Gr 7 Up—Cleverly testing the bounds of viewers' imaginations, this production begins with a terrorist attack that has left the United States with a tainted food supply, hospitalizing over 325,000 Americans annually, and causing 5000 deaths. The culprit is more than 200 strains of bacteria known to cause food-borne illness that often thrive because of consumer ignorance. Several "Safe or Sorry?" scenarios of increasing complexity are presented, allowing students to test their skills at identifying proper food handling techniques. As the narrator guides viewers through these various scenes, she dispenses factoids based on USDA studies (e.g., in most homes fewer bacteria are found in the bathroom than on the kitchen counter). Among the other food safety tips are proper cooking temperatures and rules of thumb for refrigeration, hygiene hints, and techniques to avoid cross-contamination of kitchen surfaces and equipment. A review of these concepts rounds out the production, which will work well in health curricula by providing a snappy, succinct overview of basic food safety.—Meghann R. Matwichuk, University of Delaware, Newark

Gr 6 Up—What do we pay the most for at the store, food or convenience? Did you know that water and air are the number one ingredients we pay the most for in convenience foods? Are fish sticks and chicken nuggets real food or convenience food? What are the costs of convenience? This fast-paced program, narrated by students, answers these questions and more. It explains how a bushel of corn used for old-fashioned popcorn can cost $48, but cost $270 when used for microwave popcorn because it includes packaging and extras like oil, butter, and salt. A brief history of convenience foods explains how even natural foods have been engineered for quick preparation. Viewers are cautioned to read labels on processed food carefully for added sodium, preservatives, and other additives left to the discretion of the processor. Interestingly, some convenience foods are worth the extra costs and have more nutrients than their fresh counterparts. Viewers will learn a great deal about the cost and nutritional value of convenience foods.—Anita Lawson, Otsego High School, MI

Gr 8 Up—Produced by a group of Canadian high school girls, this film opens with a disturbing quote from The Media Awareness Center: "…by treating tweens as independent mature consumers, marketers have been very successful in removing their parents from the picture, leaving tweens vulnerable to potentially unhealthy messages about body image, sexuality, relationships and violence." This film shows what happens when teenage victims of the media age begin to document the way they perceive the challenges of their world. The production is composedd of selections from films created by girls ages 12 to 17 who were enrolled in a media literacy and production course. The vignettes are edited together in a format that gradually draws you into their lives as they candidly share their fears and experiences concerning body image, eating disorders, cutting, sexuality, friendship, and more. The different styles may be confusing for the first few minutes until a rhythm is established for the girls' messages. The filmmaking is excellent, featuring individual interviews, group discussion, and some animated sequences. For media studies, women's studies, guidance, and health classes.—Barbara Fecteau, Beverly High School, MA

Gr 7 Up—This revised and updated title is divided into four components—a concise definition of fabric, an explanation of how fabric is made, information about blended fabric construction, and textile finishing techniques. Fabric felting, weaving, and knitting are presented in a fast-paced yet thorough manner, using simple analogies to describe complex processes, such as comparing the carding of wool and other fibers to running a comb through hair, or a using a tennis racket to show crosswise (weft) and lengthwise threads (warp). The voice-over narration paired with live-action footage works well to explain the weaving process. Students learn about knitted and blended fabrics, including a demonstration of hand loom weaving as well as the more modern weaving and knitting machinery found in factories today. A useful resource for home economics classes.—Celeste Steward, Alameda County Library, Fremont, CA

PreS-Gr 2—This animated version of B. G. Hennessy's retelling (S & S, 2006) of Aesop's "The Shepherd Boy and the Wolf" is imaginative and humorous. Boris Kulikov's large, colorful watercolor-and-gouache illustrations make it a timeless tale that reflects the multicultural versions of the story. Peter Scolari narrates clearly, providing unique voices for the characters; music and sound effects enrich the telling. In an interview, the illustrator explains his reasons for and process of embellishing the story. Teachers will find his ideas fascinating, but they will be too complex for young children. The DVD offers a read-along option. A clever retelling for group or individual use.—Ann Elders, Mark Twain Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 3 Up—When the Robot Wars ended 100 years ago, the planet was decimated. But the greatest weapon of the wars, the legendary Fist of Eon, was never found. Now, most people have to salvage scrap robot parts from the desert in order to get money to live, including 11-year-old Marty, his adopted father Gaff, and his robotic talking dog, Buttons. Out on one of his forays, Marty meets a young girl who is being chased by robot bikers. To protect her, the pair hide in a cave where Buttons finds the Fist of Eon hidden in an underground cavern and brings it to Marty. Marty puts on the glove and gains powers that he is not sure how to use. Now the real battle begins between the evil General and those entrusted to keep the Fist of Eon safe. The storyline is engaging, the animation is well done, and the characters are well drawn. This computer-generated imagery (CGI) series has appeared on the Kid's WB channel. However, it is a fairly violent story involving children in danger and may not be suitable for younger viewers despite the fact that they might appear at first glance to be its target audience. Fans of Dragon Ball Z, the animé series, and action/adventure/sci-fi titles might enjoy this action-packed production.—Jane Halsall, McHenry Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 2—Get ready for Halloween with these two picture book stories. Kevin Lewis's The Runaway Pumpkin (Orchard, 2003) is a rhyming tale about a giant pumpkin that rolls down a hill past various members of a farm family who all imagine the tasty things grandma might make from it. It ends at the kitchen table, with pumpkin treats and a giant jack-o-lantern. S.D. Schindler's gauche-and-pencil illustrations are detailed and humorous. The stars of Wendell Minor's Pumpkin Heads! (Blue Sky Press, 2001) are the detailed and varied watercolor illustrations of different types of jack-o-lanterns along with the brief, simple text. The text is also offered as a read-along option. Each story is read by a male narrator with sound effects and original background music that enriches to the telling. The illustrations are scanned iconographically, giving viewers a chance to enjoy all the details. Audio and video quality is excellent throughout. A good introduction for jack-o-lantern art projects in October.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 5 Up—Julie's family has just moved to Manzanita, Oregon, where her grandparents live because her father is out of work. Her parents always fight, her smart sister is hanging out with a loser, her brother is a brat, and 14-year-old Julie is lonely. She spends time with her grandfather, a marionette maker who uses his carvings to tell stories with his friend, Standing Elk. The pair tell her the tale of Tillamook's Gold supposedly hidden from the Native Americans in the 16th century by Spanish sailors. Julie is caught up in the tale, and when she discovers a mysterious coin on the beach, she begins her quest to find the Tillamook Gold. As Julie learns more about the legend and the involvement of a specially marked elk, she takes the elk as her spirit guide and begins to figure out where the treasure may be hidden. The acting by Suzanne Marie Doyon, Brian McNamara, Max Gail, Floyd "Red Crow" Westerman, and others is adequate. The films ends with the message that the real treasures in life are more important than gold. Fine family fare.—Jane Halsall, McHenry Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 2—This videobook combines illustrations, narration, music, sound effects, and karaoke-style subtitles to present this adaptation of the Hans Christian Andersen tale. Brooke Shields reads the rhyming text slowly and expressively (Spanish narration is also available). Iconographic animation with zooms and pans show Ronda Voo's cute, uncluttered illustrations that have simple shapes and look like layered paper or felt. Rocio Cambareri's soft background music features piano, violins, and flutes. Sound effects enhance the telling. Bonus features include an interactive quiz and a downloadable MP3 audiobook. Young children will enjoy this beautifully produced program.—Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS-Gr 2—Ever had a bad day? Well, three bunnies are having dreadful days in these three gentle stories by Rosemary Wells (Dial, 1992 op; Viking, 2008): First Tomato, Moss Pillows, and The Island Light. Claire had a horrible day at school, Robert had a dismal visit to his aunt and uncle's house, and Felix missed his good-night kiss. Each ends up "Far beyond the moon and stars, twenty light-years south of Mars" where the Bunny Planet's queen, Janet, shows them the day that should have been. For Claire it's a lovely day with her mother and the first spring tomato. For Robert it's a quiet afternoon alone in the woods. For Felix it's a rainy evening at a lighthouse with his father. The Bunny Planet stories are gently rhyming, wonderfully evocative, and full of those small treasured memories that strengthen us through hard times. Actress Maggie Gyllenhaal narrates in a gently flowing voice, accompanied by original background music by Zdenek Merta that subtly shifts for each story to suit the text. The tales have been completely and delightfully animated, and the DVD includes an excerpt from a 1994 interview with the author. This excellent production will touch hearts both young and old.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 9 Up—Walt Whitman is often considered America's first great poet who provided a voice for the common man. Recounting information about Whitman's life and his lifelong work, Leaves of Grass, narrator J. K. Simmons takes viewers through Whitman's early life, employment as a newspaper journalist in New York, and the publication of Leaves of Grass, to his death in 1892. Whitman believed that his poetry would appeal to the common man, but the reviews of his book were scathing. Later editions expressed his outrage over slavery and hope that the Civil War would not come. The film features black-and-white and color photos with readings of Whitman's work by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Yusef Komunyakaa, poet Martin Espada, former Poet Laureate Billy Collins, and novelist Allan Gurganus. Actor Chris Cooper is the voice of Whitman. This very frank look at Whitman's life and work will be appreciated by teachers introducing units on the poet and students studying his poetry.—Jeana Actkinson, Bridgeport High School, TX

Gr 6 Up—This well-done, richly textured documentary explores the life and work of Caldecott Medal-winning author and illustrator Virginia Lee Burton. Best remembered for The Little House and Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel, Burton's stories have enchanted children for over 60 years. This film utilizes many never-before-seen photographs, personal documents, sketches, manuscripts, and other archival material, as well as interviews with family and friends to provide an indepth look at her writing and illustrations and an understanding of why they are still popular and engage children more than four decades after her death. This excellent portrait is appropriate for children's author and literature studies at the middle through high school levels as well as for students of art and literature.—Linda Steele, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City

Gr 4 Up—Produced to "ignite patriotism in America," this film offers a selection of patriotic songs which are played while appropriate images are flashed on the screen. Among the selections are "God Bless America," "The Star Spangled Banner," "The Battle Hymn of the Republic," "Grand Ole Flag," and "Stars and Stripes Forever." DVD extras include the "Pledge of Allegiance" and patriotic quotations. The soundtrack was recorded with the Appalachian State University Wind Ensemble, the Voices of the Laurel children's choir, Andrea Kramer, and Dr. Barry Bate, Jr. Each song can be listened to as an instrumental version, a performance by a children's choir, and sung by the male or female vocalist. Viewers can also choose to have the lyrics flashed on the screen for each song. The DVD is solidly produced and schools lacking a music teacher might find this an interesting way to teach these songs to students.—David Bilmes, Schaghticoke Middle School, New Milford, CT

PreS—This DVD features songs performed by lead singer Stephanie Schneiderman mirroring rock classics made popular by The Beatles, Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Marley, and other artists. Among the songs are "Sunday Sun," "When We Grow Up," "Pony Boy," "Get Together," " These are the Days," and more. Schneiderman's voice is sweet, and the video backgrounds for each song are varied, from children playing on playgrounds to puppets appearing to sing the lyrics to computer animation. There is plenty of variety here, both musically and visually, to keep the attention of the intended audience. The CD contains the soundtrack to the DVD. A nice collection of non-traditional children's songs, this title will make a solid addition to general listening collections as well as a good bridge for parents looking to share some musical memories with their young ones.—Kirsten Martindale, formerly Menomonie Public Library, WI

PreS-Gr 3—Well-known children's performing artist and Grammy-award winner Bill Harley puts on a live concert before an audience at the University of Montana, Missoula. Performing beautifully on six-string acoustic guitar, and with only a wooden chair as a prop, Harley has great comedic timing and the ability to create multiple voices. His performance showcases 10 songs and stories related to family life and school. In "Grown-ups Are Strange," he humorously informs children that they will also be grown-ups someday. Among the other folk-style songs and stories are "Mrs. Ammons and the Boys' Room," "The Ballad of Dirty Joe" (from Harley's picture book), "You're in Trouble," "Mom and the Radio," and more. The bonus features on the DVD include an interview with Harley and a section of FAQs. The CD set is a recording of the entire concert. A fun-filled romp with one of the finest children's performers, and a special treat for those who have never seen Harley in a live concert.—Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

Gr 9 Up—These two films take students into the real world of forensic science and explain the day-to-day work of these specialists. All About Forensic Science divides forensic science into field, lab, and medical science and highlights the differences between each type of investigator. Forensic scientists in each field discuss their work and debunk the stereotypes presented on TV shows. While the voice-over is clear and the visuals are interesting, the simple interview format may not be entertaining enough to engage students. Forensic Science in Action is much more exciting. It begins with a mock TV show and then changes the action to illustrate the actual work of forensic scientists from the point where the victim is found to the presentation of evidence in the courtroom. There is a story line and some humor here that is lacking in All About Forensic Science. While the same scientists are interviewed in both films and the same crime is investigated, each title has something different to offer and they complement each other.—Barbara Skaryd Fecteau, Beverly High School, MA

Gr 10 Up—David Suzuki, Canadian environmentalist, narrates this informative documentary which explores green construction in Canada and its positive impact on the environment and our world. In interviews, Canadian architects focus on current projects that use ordinary materials as well as the latest technology to produce high levels of sustainability. Applicable examples of building green are explained in ten chapters that cover rammed earth housing, straw bale construction, house positioning, living small, greening suburbs, urban retrofitting, and more. The live-action format delivers a well-researched film which will inspire viewers to rethink today's construction techniques and understand the urgent need to adopt green construction in order to protect our environment as well as to save energy and money. The film's final chapter discusses the future of building green, highlighting the possibilities of combining business and living spaces; altering heating, cooling, and lighting sources in order to reduce cost and consumption; constructing healthier dwellings; and educating consumers about the need for change in the construction industry. This objective film will be of interest to environmental studies classes.—Linda M. Teel, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC

Gr 9 Up—This program examines the informational chasm about global warming that has emerged between scientists and politicians over the last several years. Beginning in 2004, people were questioned about their top-most concerns; global warming was not on their lists. All of this began to change due to the diligent work of writers like Bill McKibben and Ross Gelbstan, scientist turned television personality Heidi Cullen, and former civil servant Rich Piltz, all appearing on screen. They, and others, attacked the misperception and misinformation the public held about the most serious problem facing humanity. This is a story of politics and special interest groups, especially energy companies, and money. Whistle-blower Piltz is a hero, lobbyists are the bad guys. The presentation of the controversy is interesting and remarks from citizens and politicos range from ignorant to stupefying. The disaster caused by Hurricane Katrina focused renewed attention on global warming and motivated people to demand bold policies and actions by the government. The voice of a male narrator glides over the excellent visuals in the 12 chapters of the main program. The film is informational and also serves as a springboard for debates concerning the role of media, money, and government decision making. Classes in government, journalism, communications and environmental science can utilize this thought-provoking offering.—Patricia Ann Owens, Wabash Valley College, Mt. Carmel, IL

Gr 9 Up—In the early 1980s, documentary explorer Jean-Michel Cousteau, with his father Jacques, embarked on a voyage through the Amazon River Basin. He has since returned with his adult children to investigate the impact of climate change and rampant deforestation on the region. Cousteau and his team spent ten months in the rainforest, interviewing the inhabitants of the region and scientists in an effort to persuade his audience that the key to conservation is to view nature as a business with resources that must be protected. The team focuses on several operations, including farms, fisheries, and eco-tourist destinations, that stress the concept of sustainability. The filmmaking techniques are superb with high quality picture and excellent shots both in and out of the water. The inclusion of multigenerational and multinational participants strengthens Cousteau's message that the preservation of the Amazon is a worldwide concern. This program can serve as a great springboard for discussions about the changing environment and conservation.—Ryan Henry, Daviess County Public Library, Owensboro, KY

Gr 9 Up—In the opening moments, a goofy young man who appears to have a lot of time on his hands kisses himself on the bicep as a narrator explains the wonderful things that muscles can do. This humorous scene sets the stage for an interesting and detailed look at human musculature. The film is divided into six parts: functions of muscles, types of muscles (two parts), muscle fibers, muscle contractions, and inside the muscles. The young man pops up throughout the film to illustrate the components of the human body that are discussed. Interspersed with his pantomimed adventures are clips of young people engaging in activities to illustrate the types of muscle being used as well as animated illustrations of the different muscles. Important facts are printed onscreen. Excellent stopping points at the end of each section allows instructors to pause the film for review and discussion. This information-rich production offers an overview of muscles in an entertaining format that will appeal to high school students and their teachers.—Barbara Skaryd Fecteau, Beverly High School, MA

K-Gr 2—The three episodes in this film, done in computer-generated claymation, have only minor science applications and are not sequential. Each features Ping and Pong, a boy and a girl bunny. Dr. Stein (a turtle) provides the facts. "Space Ship" talks about weightlessness in outer space and points out challenges in eating, sleeping, and going to the bathroom without offering many specific details. "Moon," the strongest segment, clearly explains why the moon seems to follow you at night. "Underground" seems unrelated to the previous two episodes, taking Ping and Pong below ground with a pair of moles looking for treasure. They discover pipes, underground animals, fossils, and coal. Each segment ends with a song that reviews the concepts presented. This title does not provide enough support for primary science units.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

K-Gr 2—In six brief episodes, animated characters Ping and Pong teach youngsters about bones, belly buttons, hands, scabs, sneezing, and sweating. For example, the duo go to the doctor for x-rays and learn about the important function bones play in the body. In the episode about sneezing, the science of what causes a sneeze is covered, but Ping is shown sneezing on everyone and there is no mention of covering your nose and mouth. In another segment, Ping decides to wear gloves so he doesn't have to wash his hands, but when he realizes that there are still germs (depicted as devil-like creatures with pitchforks) on his hands, he starts washing them constantly with no mention of reasonable frequency. The belly button segment uses the word "womb" and mentions the need to cut the umbilical cord without a suitable explanation, which may lead to many questions from viewers. Teachers using this DVD will need to supplement the lessons with additional information.—Stephanie Farnlacher, Trace Crossings Elementary School, Hoover, AL

Gr 9 Up—The life of Benazir Bhutto, the most influential Pakistani woman in history, is detailed in this documentary. Drawing from candid interviews, family history, and archival materials, the producers provide a thorough overview about this controversial, barrier-breaking Prime Minister turned prisoner and exile. Coming from a dynasty that can trace its roots to the Arab Conquest of 712 (her father was Pakistan's first President and then Prime Minister), Bhutto lived a life of privilege and political influence, eventually becoming the Muslim world's first female leader. She was twice removed from power on charges of corruption, and spent five years in and out of prison. After eight years in exile, Bhutto returned to Pakistan in 2007 and filed nomination papers for the parliamentary elections. Soon after that, she was assassinated while leaving a campaign rally. Her fascinating yet tragic story encapsulates Pakistan's struggle for both a secured democratic state and the rights of women in a repressive culture. An excellent addition to high school media centers and for programs dealing with women's rights, global studies, political science, and Middle Eastern studies.—Vincent M. Livoti, Kresge Center for Teaching Resources, Lesley University, Cambridge, MA

Gr 7 Up—Gettysburg, the site of the pivotal battle of the Civil War, is one of our country's most frequently visited historical points of interest and contains hundreds of memorials. This well-conceived and soundly developed program, intended expressly for classroom use and student research, introduces 70 of the most significant commemorative tributes found throughout the large battle location. Each monument and statue was selected because of its unique design or the contribution of the person, group, or military contingent to which it was dedicated. Tailored to the needs of middle and high school students, groups of ten monuments are individually introduced utilizing crisp and clear still photographs along with a narrative detailing the date built, the cost, the reason for placement at its particular location, a description of any distinctive design elements, and the significance of the person or group to whom the work is dedicated. The well-paced narration permits students to take notes while concentrating on the photographs. After each set of monuments has been presented, the narrator gives a two-question quiz; correct responses are then shared with viewers. This well-designed, educationally sound, extremely affordable, and valuable film will fill a need in middle and high school collections.—Dwain Thomas, formerly Lake Park High School, Roselle, IL

Gr 9 Up—Produced with support from the Global Fund for Children, this documentary explores the issue of child labor—particularly in Nepal, where 60,000 child porters comprise 25 percent of the nation's workforce. Against a backdrop featuring some of the most beautiful and remote landscapes in the world, the phenomenal resilience and indomitable spirit of these young workers is both inspiring and heart breaking. The film's primary narrative centers on the delivery of a red Coca-Cola refrigerator by Hari Raj, a 17-year-old who carries heavy loads to communities throughout the Himalayan Mountains to help support his education. With already three years of experience, his loads range from furniture to food, and from machinery to medicine. Throughout the film, it becomes evident that Hari is one of the few child porters who has access to schooling and the potential for socio-economic advancement. The harsh reality of his daily life provides insight into his perspectives and hopes and helps viewers understand the struggles within many developing nations for a subsistent quality of life. A moving, unforgettable look exploration of child labor for secondary schools with a strong social justice curriculum.—Vincent M. Livoti, Kresge Center for Teaching Resources, Lesley University, Cambridge, MA

K-Gr 3—Young sisters Chantell and Nakia travel to Bali and learn about the daily lives of children on this Indonesian island. The girls interact with the Balinese youngsters, dancing, playing in rice fields, and hunting for coconuts. A Balinese language lesson and folktale puppet play are presented. The videography is beautiful, and many details of everyday life are highlighted. A suitable introduction to Indonesia and its culture for young children.—Denise A. Garofalo, Astor Learning Center, Rhinebeck, NY

Gr 1–4—Lane Smith's unique take on the presidency (Hyperion, 2008) will have children giggling and adults grinning. Told in the first person in a child's voice, the story follows a young girl through a typical day, viewed through presidential lenses. The pony-tailed, pant-suited heroine goes to a state funeral (a pet burial), selects her cabinet from her toy cabinet (Mr. Potato Head is Secretary of Agriculture), kisses babies, and hands out small flags with zeal. She uses her veto power on the tuna casserole at the school cafeteria, and re-images her oral report as a news conference. She also exercises tact and diplomacy, works for world peace on a very local scale, and eventually has to deal with a disaster zone (her bedroom). This humorous look at presidential duties, reduced to kid-size, features Smith's illustrations which have been cleverly animated, with lots of white space. Bouncy patriotic music abounds. Our candidate even has her own words to "Hail to the Chief," and viewers can sing along. Following the story is an interview with the author who explains the story's evolution, gives insight into story details, provides some personal background information, and generally displays the sense of humor that radiates through his books. This high-quality production will be particularly useful as we head toward the presidential election in November.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 6 Up—This set "chronicles decisive events in the crucial colonial period that would lead to the founding of the United States of America" by presenting brief, high interest introductions to various events. The four segments chronicle the initial European exploration and settlement of our country from Columbus's first voyage to the Western Hemisphere in 1502 to the British establishment of the colonies at the end of the 17th century. Each section is composed of five or six brief episodes focusing on a significant individual or group. Among the topics covered are "Ponce de Leon Discovers Florida," "The Dutch Claim New York and Name It New Netherlands," "Blacks Arrive in Jamestown," "The Role of Women in the English Colonies," "John Winthrop Is Elected Governor of Massachusetts Bay Colony," "LaSalle Claims Louisiana Territory for France," and others. The series features a wide variety of presentation techniques, such as video re-creations, vintage artwork, sparkling contemporary footage, and crisp graphics which complement the professional narration and pleasing background music. The information provided about these events will pique viewers' curiosity to learn more. While well-known explorers and early leaders are included, the accomplishments of lesser-known individuals are also detailed. This captivating program will be used over and over again by media specialists and classroom teachers and will be a favorite with students.—Dwain Thomas, formerly Lake Park High School, Roselle, IL

Gr 10 Up—Henry Louis Gates Jr., Du Bois Professor of the Humanities at Harvard University, presents an autoethnographic perspective on the dynamics of class disparity within the African-American community. He braids interviews with archival imagery, creating a space for dialogue with influential scholars and activists ranging from William Julius Wilson to Jesse Jackson and from Angela Davis to Cornell West. Through a sharing of stories via a multidisciplinary lens, this documentary makes the compelling case that the impact of class on racial mobility in the United States must be more closely examined. Although the episode is ten years old, the information remains current. It is an excellent complement to Gates's American Lives DVD series. A minor detraction from this program's excellent content is that a vast majority of the commentary is provided by the affluent and highly educated side of the African-American class divide. The lower-income community is characterized one-dimensionally by homeless men and a gang member whose identity is concealed. For some, these polarizing depictions may seem antithetical to the goal of the documentary; for others, this may artfully underscore the issue. This program will have applications in many content areas taught in high school, including sociology, history, and economics.—Vincent M. Livoti, Kresge Center for Teaching Resources, Lesley University, Cambridge, MA

Gr 9 Up—In Eva Ibbotson's romance novel (St. Martin's Pr., 1985; Puffin, pap. 2007), Harriet Morton, 19, leads a boring, confined life on an estate in 1912 England because of her restrictive father and spinster aunt. Ballet class is one of the few things she has been allowed to enjoy. Hungry for more than the marriage her father has arranged for her, she sneaks off to join a ballet company tour to South America and meets colorful characters including the wealthy, but reclusive Rom Verney who changes her life in ways she never dreamed possible. Harriet is transformed from a sheltered, naïve girl into a beautiful and talented woman and dancer. Patricia Connolly's near flawless narration features accents, tones, and pacing that transport listeners into Harriet's world. On only a few occasions, she continues speaking in the voice of the character for a few seconds at the beginning of a narrative segment. A fine choice for school and public libraries.—Stephanie A. Squicciarini, Fairport Public Library, NY

Gr 3–6—Leroy "Encyclopedia" Brown, the fifth-grade sleuth, is busy investigating ten cases, including an underhanded scheme to fool neighborhood kids, a kidnapped skier, and various mysteries involving Encyclopedia's nemesis, Bugs Meany, in this volume (Thomas Nelson, 1971) in the series by Donald Sobol. After listening to each case, youngsters can pause the CD and try to figure out the solution to the mystery by themselves or can continue listening to discover the resolution. Featuring narration by Greg Steinbruner, this audiobook can be used in the classroom as part of a listening center, as an introduction to the mystery genre, and with reluctant readers.—Mercedes Smith, Kernan Trail Elementary School, Jacksonville, FL

Gr 9 Up—Dana Reinhardt's novel (Wendy Lamb Books, 2008) is well suited to the audio format—it's character driven, thoughtful, and rife with both interior monologue and witty repartee among characters. Seventeen-year-old Harper makes a proactive decision when things go wrong in her personal life—her parents' divorce and two important friendships go awry—and joins a summer volunteer program to help rebuild a house destroyed in a Tennessee tornado. As a secular Jewish girl from Los Angeles, Harper has a lot to learn in semi-rural Tennessee even before getting involved with a biracial boyfriend. Reinhardt treats cultural diversity, divorce, and bleded families with grace. Caitlin Greer voices a credible Harper, but some of her Southern accents for other characters are flat or, worse, caricatures. Pacing of both story and reading are good. Harper's issues, including her journey to build a house and rebuild her own life, are accessible to teens and the solutions are realistic.—Francisca Goldsmith, Halifax Public Libraries, Nova Scotia, Canada

Gr 7–10—Erin's mother died when she was a baby and with a father and two brothers that refuse to talk about her, Erin has only her mother's old copy of Harper Lee's To Kill a Mockingbird which she found in the attic to remember her by in this novel by Loretta Ellsworth (Holt, 2007) set in 1986. After her father announces that he is remarrying, he gives Erin her mother's diary, in which she reads that her mother wrote to Lee when she was Erin's age. This sets Erin's quest in motion. She sneaks out of her house and catches a bus to Monroeville, Alabama, Lee's hometown. Erin learns many life lessons from her fellow passengers and she, in turn, inspires them to go beyond their own comfort zones. Jessica Almasy's vocal personalities for most characters are strong and well done. In a few instances, pauses in narration are distracting. This journey of self discovery is a good selection to inspire group discussions about the power of a book to change lives.—Stephanie A. Squicciarini, Fairport Public Library, NY

Gr 8 Up—During her apprenticeship at a summer theater company, 20-year-old Elizabeth begins to discover what acting and actors are all about and she falls in love for the first time in this story (Farrar, 2008) written in the 1940's and based on Madeleine L'Engle's experiences working for a theater company in Nantucket for two summers. Weekly guest stars, regular cast members, and fellow students help Elizabeth realize what achieving her dream will entail. The introduction and a bonus interview are by the author's granddaughter, Lena Roy, who recalls how this story was written for her and her sisters. Narrator Maggi-Meg Reed provides subtle voice changes for the different characters, making it difficult at the beginning to determine who is speaking. This semi-autobiographical, gentle, compelling coming-of-age story will enthrall most teenage girls.—Anita Lawson, Otsego High School, MI

Gr 6–9—Michael Scott's tense sequel (Delacorte, 2008) to The Alchemyst (Delacorte, 2007) finds teen twins, Sophi and Josh, once again on the run from Dr. John Dee and the Dark Elders who are trying to obtain the book of Abraham the Mage—an item of incredible power that would allow the Dark Elders to enslave humankind and destroy the world. With most of the book in their possession, the dark servants are desperate to obtain the all-important final two pages of text. In the midst of the breathless chase, Sophi is learning to use and control her new-found powers and Josh is envious that Sophi's powers have been awakened. Josh also has his doubts about their supposed ally, Nicholas Flamel, leading him to question who the bad guys really are. The conclusion will leave listeners anxious for the next installment. Erik Singer does a laudable job giving voice to a wide range of characters, convincingly portraying everything from two modern American teenagers to ancient Italians who switch between archaic and contemporary speech. Even the language of a variety of mythical monsters comes across as authentic. Singer keeps up the pace and tension of this edgy ride perfectly, creating a wonderful listening experience.—Deanna Romriell, Salt Lake City Public Library, UT

Gr 5–9—In the spring of 1887, Anne Sullivan, a half-blind orphan, traveled to Alabama to teach Helen Keller, a deaf, blind, and mute six-year-old. Sarah Miller's debut novel (Atheneum, 2007) brings history to life by focusing on the first few weeks of Helen and Anne's relationship. She takes the familiar Miracle Worker story and sets her telling apart by weaving in flashbacks of the little known background of Anne Sullivan. In Alabama, Anne must battle a spoiled, willful Helen and her overindulgent parents. The teacher quickly recognizes that Helen is very bright, and eventually succeeds in teaching her pupil to communicate. Narrator Terry Donnelly uses a slight Irish brogue and clear, slow enunciation to good effect. Great characterization and poetic language make this a marvelous historical fiction offering.—Tricia Melgaard, Centennial Middle School, Broken Arrow, OK

Gr 7 Up—This novella (Knopf, 2008) is partly a prequel to Philip Pullman's His Dark Materials trilogy and in part a shoot-em-up Western-style adventure with a little political commentary included. Arriving in Svalbard at the beginning of his career as an aeronaut, Lee Scoresby soon learns that Ivan Poliakov, a corrupt politician, is running for office claiming that bears are a major problem and he will get rid of them. In reality, Poliakov is using fear politics to pave the way for private corporations to seize power and resources from the people. Scoresby pits himself against Poliakov and his henchmen. With the help of the bear Iorek Byrnison, he fights Poliakov's men to enable a Dutch Captain to liberate his boat and cargo which Poliakov is holding hostage. Ephemera appended feature Lyra Silvertongue submitting a University thesis apparently based on these adventures, but listeners unfamiliar with the trilogy will have no idea who she is or how she relates to the story. While entertaining, the tale lacks many of the elements that made the trilogy so gripping. Except for the presence of daemons and talking bears, there is no supernatural element. Although the story takes place before the trilogy, it doesn't shed much light on characters and events that are to come. Pullman narrates the story perfectly in an expressive, somewhat gravelly voice, and a full cast of actors voice the characters. While listeners will enjoy the non-stop action, it is not an essential purchase and would be most suited to large collections with many Pullman fans.—Louise L. Sherman, formerly Anna C. Scott School, Leonia, NJ

Gr 4–7—Shortly after 12-year-old Xena and her younger brother Xander move with their parents to London from Florida, they discover that they are the direct descendents of Sherlock Holmes and they receive his notebook of unsolved cases in this first title (Holt, 2008) in the series by Tracy Barrett. The youngsters are determined to try to solve a case, and settle on one involving a long-missing portrait by the artist Nigel Batheson. There is an exhibit of his work scheduled to open at a local museum, so the children feel a connection to the case. Following one clue after another, as well as some miscues, the siblings use their particular talents of exceptional memory and observation to find a solution. Likeable characters, an intriguing premise, and references to original Sherlock Holmes stories combine for a fun telling. David Pittu does a laudable job reading the tale and has an excellent sense of timing. He gives each character a unique voice and brings the various personalities to life. An enjoyable beginning to a new series.—Deanna Romriell, Salt Lake City Public Library, UT

Gr 2–4—Youngsters will relate to Stink Moody in these two delightful early chapter books by Megan McDonald. In Stink and the World's Worst Super-Stinky Sneakers (Candlewick, 2007), Stink is on a class field trip to the science museum when he discovers, thanks to the "Everybody Stinks" exhibit, that he has the innate ability to identify most any smell, from toilet water to the super-stinky corpse flower. When it comes time for the Super Stinky Sneaker Contest at school, Stink is a "shoe" in to win until he ends up being one of the judges. In Stink and the Guinea Pig Express (Candlewick, 2008), Stink and his friends Webster and Sophie discover renegade guinea pigs in their cereal box creation of the Great Wall of China. After checking with the owner of the local pet shop, they discover that these animals are just some of a much larger group of rodents that she has rescued. The youngsters are determined to find homes for the 101 guinea pigs. This delightful audiobook is wonderfully narrated by Nancy Cartwright. She gives each character a distinct voice, and a slightly nasal interpretation of Stink, which adds a humorous touch to the stories. A great addition to school and public libraries.—Amy Joslyn, Fairport Public Library, NY

Gr 9 Up—This heart-wrenching, realistic debut novel (Little Brown, 2007) by Sara Zarr emphasizes the agonizing fact that we are often defined by just one mistake that we make. When Deanna Lambert was 13, her father discovered her having sex in the backseat of a Buick with 17-year-old Tommy. The next day the boy boasted to his friends, and Deanna was labeled the town skank—and an undeserved legend began to perpetuate. Three years later, Deanna has developed the hard shell necessary just to navigate the halls of her small town, blue collar high school. Although she has never even kissed another boy, her reputation makes her the butt of jokes and harassment. Summer is approaching, and Deanna takes a job at a pizza dive and is horrified to discover that Tommy also works there. She finally works through her demons by facing off with Tommy and forcing her father to pay attention to her. The beauty of this story lies in the well-rounded characters and themes of acceptance and forgiveness. This National Book Award finalist is narrated by the author, and Deanna's voice rings true. While the book's mature themes make it most suitable for older teens, slightly younger listeners could learn a great deal from the aching heart of the story's protagonist.—Tricia Melgaard, Centennial Middle School, Broken Arrow, OK

Gr 7 Up—Jennifer Harris was a mousy little girl, an outcast, bullied by her classmates, until she met Cameron. They became best friends—and then one day he disappeared. Convinced that he was dead, Jennifer was devastated but, over time, internalized her feelings and accepted that the boy would never come back into her life. Now in high school, Jennifer reinvents herself as Jenna and becomes popular. Things are going well until Jenna's 17th birthday when Cameron reappears and turns everything she knows upside down. She and Cameron revisit their memories and come to grips with what really happened to him years ago. Sara Zarr insightfully narrates her poignant tale (Little Brown, 2008), bringing Jenna and Camerson to life and giving all the other characters unique personas. An excellent audio version of a wonderful book.—Jessica Miller, New Britain Public Library, CT

Gr 7 Up—"My name is Sophie. This book is about me." With these words, Sonya Sones's novel (S & S, 2001) draws listeners into the private thoughts and longings of a ninth grade girl on the verge of finding love and learning what it means to mature. Dealing with a mother who immerses herself in the lives of her favorite soap stars, Sophie finds herself thinking about all the things her mother doesn't know about her, such as the fact that she's dating socially acceptable Dylan, though she has started daydreaming about a dorky boy named Murphy. When everyone else seems to leave town on a school break, Sophie has a blast with Murphy, and wonders if he is Mr. Right. Thoughts of her friends' reactions to the boy almost bring the new relationship to a halt. Told in Sophie's own free verse poems, the story moves and evolves quickly in a satisfying and tantalizing manner. Kate Reinders perfectly portrays Sophie's teen angst. Although the reading is sometimes too rapid for listeners to absorb the changes in topics, girls will relate to the author's honest prose and Sohie's angst. An excellent addition to YA collections.—Jessica Miller, New Britain Public Library, CT

Gr 2–5—In this straightforward, no frills, no glitz tutorial, listeners are taught the times tables from 1 through 12. Professor Stan provides a brief introduction to the program's format, and then begins with the one times table. He says each equation (e.g., one times one equals one) and then there is a pause during which the student is expected to repeat it. Next, he repeats the equation again without the answer, and the listener must provide the correct response before Professor Stan gives the answer. This process is repeated for each times table. At the conclusion, students must take two practice exams which feature multiplication problems, including a few simple story problems. There is nothing here that will inspire or motivate youngsters who need some encouragement.—Deanna Romriell, Salt Lake City Public Library, UT

PreS-Gr 3—Ilene Altman and Steven Equi (Leeny and Steve) score on their debut album. These self-described "middle-aged rockers" offer 16 original tunes that have real kid appeal. The lyrics teach, but never preach. The album features various musical styles, such as reggae, rock, and country. Leeny's voice changes to match the mood of the piece. Several cuts deal with behavior: "It's Not Nice" (a reggae number listing some bad things that kids do), "What Can I Do?!" (a country-flavored pronouncement of rules that should be followed), "Let's See How Quiet We Can Be" (a lullaby-game), "Know What the No's Are" (a crowd-pleasing show tune about the word "no"), and "Ain't Ain't a Word" (a Western story-song with puns). Many songs will be useful during story time, such as "I Like Fruit" (an upbeat pop listing of fruits that hits some operatic notes during the bridge), "Mammals" (in reggae style), and "Who's Your Buddy?" (a pop tribute to the pet dog, from his perspective). "What Have You Done with All the Penguins?" is a show-stopper that will have listeners tapping their toes. Never over-produced, this album should be enjoyed for its simplicity.—Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

PreS-Gr 3—The Learning Station and Dr. Becky Bailey, an expert in childhood education and developmental psychology, teamed up to create a series of 19 brain-boosting songs designed to improve attention span, disengage the stress response, and enhance impulse control. This enjoyable collection of 19 songs, many with a rock and roll feel, encourage participation. Most of the tunes teach lessons while encouraging children to have fun. "Greetings" explains how to properly greet others. "Calm Your Brain" teaches children to count to four in four different languages, while "Skip Count" reviews counting to 30 by 2s. Informational tunes such as "I Gotta Go" (reviews bathroom etiquette) and "Nutrition Pyramid" are included. "Move and Freeze" will get children up and moving, while "You Are Heart" will calm listeners. In the accompanying booklet, Dr. Bailey, whose Conscious Discipline program was honored by the Character Education Partnership, provides information for parents and librarians about why each song is valuable for the brain. Directions for physical movements and song lyrics are also provided in the booklet. Educators and parents will appreciate the developmental focus of this collection, while children will enjoy participating in the songs.—Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 3—Composer/musician Keeth Monta Apgar takes risks on this album with mixed results. Harmonica Pocket, the Seattle-based group, defies classification and continues its rotating roster of musicians, this time featuring the talents of Apgar, Jon Ryser, and Nala Walla. Apgar should be commended for experimenting with non-Western musical traditions and mixing it up with Western practice. It is refreshing to be exposed to unusual musical instruments and styles. Recorded in a studio using only solar power, the recording packs a strong ecological punch since many songs have a theme related to insects or nature, such as "Firefly" (a mysterious, yet intimate tune featuring a saxophone solo) and "One Tree Said" (a haunting song about only taking what you need from nature). Stand-outs include "O Susanna" (with sitar and tabla percussion accompaniment), "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star" (the syncopated beat and ukulele make this version work), "Lucid Dream #3" (this solo on pedal harp shines), and "Mbira Dreaming" (features an African mbira playing a lullaby). Less successful are the segments in which youngsters read informational reports (the opening of "Spiders in My Breakfast" and "Love a Ladybug" are almost unintelligible), the lengthy psychedelic music interlude of "I Love the ABCs," and the guitar accompanying "Mere bacche ke liye lori (Hindi Lullaby for My Child)." The laid-back nature of the majority of these tunes makes this perfect for rest-time music.—Stephanie Bange, Wilmington-Stroop Branch, Dayton Metro Library, OH

Gr all levels—Dan Zanes and Friends have done it again! The group responsible for the 2007 Grammy Award-winning album, Catch That Train (Big Kids, 2006), have produced a new album of 18 family-oriented songs, all sung in Spanish, that reflects the vibrant Latino heritage of the Big Apple that is a mingling of many different cultures. The songs deal with the sights, sounds, experiences, and people in New York City. Although all Latino, the styles vary and include son jarocho, cumbia, aguinaldo, bailecito, nueva cancion, and merengue. The CD, which has topped the Billboard charts in both the children's music and Latin pop music subsections, is a delight and begs listeners to dance, clap, and sing along. Among the songs are "Pollito Chicken," "El Pescador," "Tamora de los Morenos," "Son Borinqueno," and "Mi Luna." The liner notes include information on the origin of each song, the reason it was included on the album, the performers, and the Spanish lyrics and excellent English translations. This terrific album that promotes diversity is a perfect antidote to one-dimensional children's music. A must-have for public and school libraries.—Ann Welton, Helen B. Stafford Elementary School, Tacoma, WA

PreS-Gr 2—The Wiggles' latest album pays tribute to their favorite nursery rhymes. From the opening notes of "Pop Goes the Weasel" to the closing fun of "Insy Wincy Spider," the group infuses their special blend of energy and musicianship into every tune. The 36 songs range from the traditional "Lavender Blue" to the more contemporary "Teddy Bear." Listeners will recognize many of the songs such as "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star," "Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush," and "London Bridge Is Falling Down" and learn some lesser known nursery rhymes like "Two Fine Gentlemen," "The Grand Old Duke of York," and "Chi-Baba, Chi-Baba." Children will enjoy singing along with these delightful songs. This solid effort from the Wiggles will be in high demand.—Veronica Schwartz, Des Plaines Public Library, IL

PreS-Gr 3—Canadian Debbie Carroll's latest recording is true to its title. Borrowing themes from nature and family, each song is presented professionally with accompaniment on instruments such as the mandolin, Celtic harp fiddle, and hurdy-gurdy that enhances the pieces. Her mature voice on the 19 tracks provides a calmness to each song. Among the guest performers are David Francey and Sharlene Wallace. Both traditional and original songs are included; liner notes give a short background about the inspiration for the lyrics. Among the action songs, fingerplays, and lullabies are "Jack Jingle," "Which Is the Way the Wind Blows?," "Train Is a-Comin'," "Oats, Peas, Beans and Barley," "Sailing," and others. The CD includes PDF files with the lyrics and actions to the songs. An essential purchase for general listening and preschool collections.—Kirsten Martindale, formerly) Menomonie Public Library, WI

PreS-Gr 2—Rebecca Freeza's latest release is her best yet. Youngsters will be dancing along to her original, fresh tunes. Big Truck, Freeza' s band, rolls out the perfect accompaniment to her fluid voice whether rocking with her energy or providing the perfect backdrop to her relaxing quieter songs. These 12 new tunes include several themed songs that will fit nicely into the story hour repertoire. Train enthusiasts will appreciate the rhythmic "Clack-ity Clack." "The Spooky Dance" is a lighthearted Halloween song, complete with not-too-scary sound effects. Freeza and her daughter sing the round "Leaves Are Falling," "Snow Day" will motivate youngsters to dance around the kitchen table when the weatherman makes his much anticipated morning announcement about school closures. Other songs include "Come on Out," "Butterfly," "So Nice to Meet You," "Sidewalk Chalk," and "Carnival Ride," among others. Expect this CD to fly off the shelves, so it would be wise to purchase an additional copy for professional collections.—Kirsten Martindale, formerly Menomonie Public Library, WI

PreS-Gr 3—These 17 original songs were written and are performed by indie-rocker Robert Burke Warren (a.k.a. Uncle Rock), a former bassist with the Fleshtones and lead in the London production of The Buddy Holly Story. His experience as a preschool teacher and a dad solidify his connection with his audience. Although the subject matter covered in the lyrics is eclectic, youngsters will relate to most of it. Self-accompanied on guitar, Warren performs songs such as "The Hippie Harvest" (with a rhythmic recipe for oat bars), "The Season of Light" (includes a tribute to the vernal equinox), and "Grumpy Gus" (addresses the problem of a grumpy neighbor). From the rockin' "Super Hero Medley" all the way to the closing lullaby, "Baby Loves the Moon," Warren's quirky and energetic style will appeal to listeners who are tired of the standard fare in children's music. A nice addition to general listening collections.—Kirsten Martindale, formerly Menomonie Public Library, WI

PreS-Gr 3—The award-winning Banana Slug String Band ("Airy" Larry, "Solar" Steve, "Marine" Mark and Doug "Dirt") presents a celebration of all things water: drinking water, watershed ecology, bodies of water, wetlands, the water cycle, human and animal dependence on water, and warnings about polluting water. Performing in a variety of musical styles—country, rock, jazz, calypso, blues, and soft shoe—the band and guest musicians excel in presenting their environmental message with enthusiastic vocals and excellent musicianship on guitar, mandolin, dulcimer, ukulele, banjo, bass, bicycle horn, violin, cello, drums, keyboards, trombone, piano, dobro, and kazoo. An equally superb youth choir joins in on these ten bright and bouncy songs, including "It's a Blue Planet," "Thankful for the Watershed," "One Drop of Water," "Storm Drain Blues," "Let the Wetlands Stand," among others. This outstanding album features catchy tunes that teach youngsters about the importance of a healthy environment, and teachers and librarians can use it to enhance the curriculum or for story times.—Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS-Gr 3—Steve Pullara and His Cool Beans Band begin this animal tribute with a boogie-woogie number about animals dancing at the zoo. The other 11 bouncy, toe-tapping songs are about veterinarians, migration, mice, pigs, ducks, elephants, penguins, ponies, and other animals. All of the songs are originals by Pullara except "The Mouse" and "High Hopes." "Dance Like a Duck," to the tune of "Chicken Dance," encourages listeners to flap, waddle, and quack like a duck. Performing in a variety of musical styles, including boogie, jazz, rock, bluegrass, folk, and polka, Pullara and the other musicians perform effortlessly on guitar, banjo, flute, harmonica, jaw harp, bass, drums, keyboards, sax, and tambourine. This fun, entertaining album will be a valuable resource for animal story times.—Beverly Bixler, San Antonio Public Library, TX

PreS-K—This collection of 57 traditional Sunday school songs is performed by a family trio—Pat, Jenny, and Robyn (Dupuis) Denson. The melody-only tunes are accompanied by simple piano stylings, with each song's title announced at the beginning of the track, and are intended to reacquaint parents and grandparents with these classics so they can help children learn the words and sing along. Although the list of songs is extensive—from classics to spirituals to action songs—there is little here that would hold the attention of listeners; the pieces are all similar in tempo and presentation. A better choice would be the Wee Sing Bible Songs series by Pamela Conn Beall and Susan Hagen Nipp (Price Stern).—Kirsten Martindale, formerly Menomonie Public Library, WI

Gr 4–8—The experiences of Jews during the Holocaust is told through the eyes of Daniel, a Jewish teenager, in this novel (Scholastic, 1993) by Carol Matas. Daniel tells the tragic story through a series of reminiscences brought about by looking at photos of his family and friends taken before the war and later those he took during his time in the concentration camps. It is the harrowing story of the struggle, persecution, and wholesale slaughter of Jews during World War II. Daniel and his family were deported from Frankfurt to a Polish ghetto, then to Auschwitz, and finally, the boy and his father were taken to Buchenwald where they were eventually released by the Americans. This is also the compelling story of one boy's survival, both in body and spirit, against great odds, and his finding love amidst such overwhelming hatred. Narrator Daniel Carpenter-Gold's superlative performance brings the horror of the Holocaust to life. His youthful voice is perfect for this story told by Daniel. A must-have for students studying the Holocaust.—Kathy Miller, Baldwin Junior High School, KS

Gr 4 Up—This CD features recordings of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s speeches abridged for children, with introductions that provide historical background by such notables as Coretta Scott King, Senator Edward Kennedy, and Rosa Parks. An introduction by Andrew Young offers information about Dr. King and his philosophy regarding peace and equal rights. The CD consists of eight excerpts from two speeches: "A Call to Conscience" and "A Knock at Midnight." This collection will be of considerable interest to school and public libraries. The bonus PDF file includes photos, a timeline, letters, discussion questions, and other information collected from The Autobiography of Martin Luther King, Jr. (Hatchette, 1998), edited by Clayborne Carson. Audio quality varies because the recordings were compiled from many sources. The track listing inside the case is not accurate, but this does not detract from the value of the production.—April Mazza, Wayland Public Library, MA

PreS-Gr 2—This read-along picture book biography (Holiday House, 1999) of George Washington Carver by David Adler presents information about his life, including his birth into slavery, education, scientific accomplishments, and death in 1943. Carver's interest in plants began as a child when he had a secret garden. He received a degree in agriculture from Iowa State University and used his interest in plants to help African Americans by finding ways to use sweet potatoes and peanuts to replace the dependence on cotton as a crop in the South. Carver was an educator as well as a researcher, and was head of the agriculture department at Tuskegee Institute. Some vocabulary will need clarification. Dan Brown's watercolor illustrations reflect the pastoral nature of Carver's life. Illustrations depicting a lynching that Carver witnessed and his own kidnapping are painted in dark tones to reflect the evil of the events. The mention of a lynching may be disturbing to young children. Nathan Hinton's expressive, well-paced narration reflects Carver's gentle nature. The story is read with and without page-turn signals. The book also includes a time line of Carver's life and an "Author's Note" about his role in the education of African Americans. Teachers will find this easy-to-read biography appropriate for African-American studies as well as for science units.—Ann Elders, Mark Twain Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 1–6—Teaching decimals and fractions to a class can be challenging. This CD-ROM, designed for teacher use with elementary school students, provides 11 interactive models for whole-class instruction. The easy-to-install program allows teachers to show examples that can be modified in real-time, switched easily from decimals to fractions, and often extended to tenths, hundredths, and thousandths if they choose to do so. Decimal use, measurement (using metric terms), decimals in money, an interactive number line, the parts of a decimal number, rounding, ordering, and changing fractions to decimals are presented on a very basic level. This CD is intended to augment classroom instruction. No audio is provided, allowing teachers to present the information. Graphics are simple, but clear and easy to see. While much of the same work could be done by the teacher on the white board, the program offers an interactive element that provides an added level of understanding. Of course, it also ties the teacher into specific examples, which can be limiting. Math teachers might want to consider this as part of their personal teaching library.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 3–7—In 1978, a young biologist decided to learn how to reintroduce puffins to their traditional nesting islands along the Maine coast. Thirty years later, he has succeeded in his endeavor and is working on expanding the project. This CD-ROM has an enormous amount of information about Atlantic puffins, some great videos and photographs featuring the birds and the scientists, and terrific audio of bird sounds. Students can watch the video straight through or scroll from segment to segment. Among the topics covered are: "Challenges and Threats," "Being a Puffin Scientist," "Who's Eating Who," "Puffin History," "Home Sweet Home," "Living at Sea," "What You Can Do," "Great Puffin Quiz," and "Other Great Puffin Information" (including the teacher's guide). Each segment uses live-action footage, photographs, animation, and graphics to illustrate the concepts. Interviews with scientists and volunteers offer an important glimpse into the work done by these individuals and careers in the field. The information provided is interesting and well organized, and the visuals are stunning. This inspiring story will help young people appreciate wildlife and could be used in life science or social studies classes studying man's affect on the environment.—Suzanne Libra, Silver Hills Middle School, Westminster, CO

K-Gr 3—This easy-to-install program features eight interactive games to teach and reinforce environmental issues. Users can answer ecology questions, put puzzles together, play hangman, click and drag to create a compost pile, select items to recycle or throw in the garbage, choose clean energy options, drag endangered species to their correct homes, or play environmental concentration. Along the way, youngsters learn important ecology facts. Users can also select the Internet button to visit the company's Web site and sign up for their enewsletter. Parents and teachers can examine and use curriculum and activity pages, visit the Web site, and print out a certificate for the student. Navigation between program elements is easy. Some of the information, however, is not applicable for all locations. This is especially true of varied recycling programs—Seattle, for example, does recycle pizza boxes and food scraps. Still, this is a minor quibble for a program that is well-intentioned, informative, and clear in its purpose.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

K-Gr 3—Coral reefs are home to a wide variety of creatures. This CD-ROM offers six interactive lessons containing information about many of these animals. Most screens include a selection box, a photograph or live-action video, and a text box containing information that can be scanned or read aloud by the female narrator. Users learn about reef critters, three types of mollusks, octopuses and snails, octopus physics, five types of camouflage, and coral reef conservation. There is also a story about a blushing octopus that is filled with reef facts, a sequence memory game, and a drag-and-drop puzzle game. The program is easy to use and does not require installation. Teachers doing units on coral reefs will find this useful as a learning center or to augment classroom instruction.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

Gr 3–6—Rod Espinosa's graphic novel (ABDO, 2007) is well-presented as an ibook. It provides information about the East India Company, the French and Indian War and George Washington's role in it, the Stamp Act and Tea Tax leading to the Boston Massacre, the Boston Tea Party, and the Declaration of Independence. Text boxes provide the basics, while dialogue bubbles show peoples' reactions both in the Colonies and in England. Users have the option of having the text read to them by a male narrator who creates unique voices for the different characters or reading it by themselves. As text and dialogue are read, they are presented on the screen, and sized larger for ease of viewing. Visually appealing graphic illustrations are occasionally slightly animated, and background sounds are added to enhance the telling. The program doesn't need to be installed to run, which greatly increases its ease of use. The menu is always available, allowing users to go forward or back, stop, return to the home page, access the glossary, or go to the review quiz. This interesting presentation makes this period of history come alive and would make a good learning center or be an excellent choice for whole-class instruction.—Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA