Audio of the Week:<p/>Julius, the Baby of the World
RSSFrom SLJ May 2004
Kirsten Martindale, formerly Menomonie Public Library, WI -- School Library Journal, 04/30/2004
1 cassette. 15:56 min. with paperback book. Live Oak Media. 2003. ISBN 1-59112-249-X: $16.95; cassette w/hardcover book, ISBN 1-59112-250-3: $25.95; cassette w/4 paperbacks, ISBN 1-59112-251-1: $33.95; CD w/paperback book, ISBN 1-59112-492-1: $18.95; CD w/hardcover book, ISBN 1-59112-518-9: $28.95; CD w/4 paperbacks, ISBN 1-59112-523-5: $35.95.
PreS-Gr 2-This delightful reading of Kevin Henkes' book (HarperCollins, 1990) about sibling rivalry will please even the most reluctant new "big" brothers or sisters. Henkes' popular heroine, Lilly, is less than thrilled with baby brother Julius's arrival, competing for attention while her parents patiently direct her passive-aggressive anger toward more useful activities. Lilly surprises her audience, as well as herself, when she discovers the love for Julius that she's been hiding. Narrator Laura Hamilton's changes in inflection cleverly portray Lilly's harmless pranks and devilish sense of humor. Further drawing listeners into the text are minimal sound effects and appropriate musical interludes. Paired with Zac Morgan's song "The Cribling" (from When Bullfrogs Croak, Oct. 2003, p. 93), this title would make a wonderful addition to a "new sibling" story hour. An essential purchase for preschool and primary audio collections, it will be useful for emergent readers, group listening, and youngsters with new-siblingitis.
