"Author/actor/doting uncle Drachman (
Leo the Lightning Bug) has created a book-and-audio series as an answer to providing unique gifts to his young nieces and nephews. On
It's Me! Drachman narrates the tale of Patricia, a preschooler with a big imagination and a penchant for dress up. Patricia appears to her family as a princess, witch, a Little Mommy and finally a girl named Patricia. Everyone indulges her — except for the seemingly know-it-all brother, Danny. The role of Patricia, played beautifully by Drachman's real-life cousin Siva, will strike a chord of familiarity with young listeners and plenty of parents/caregivers. Humorous sound effects and Drachman's rich, friendly voice and playful storytelling style (which includes additional recorded introductions to the stories) make this a welcome entry to the genre. A third volume in the line,
Ellison the Elephant, about an elephant who learns to play jazz on his trunk, also by Drachman and illustrated by James Muscarello, has been released simultaneously. Ages 4-8. Renowned children's book author and illustrator Sendak turns his hand to a specialized though entertaining 'Yinglish' interpretation of Prokofiev's
Peter and the Wolf. For starters, Boychick Pincus hears a little birdie 'kvetching' away, 'Oy! Vay!' The orchestra keeps to Prokofiev's intended story line by giving each animal an instrument counterpart. However, this klezmer version featuring clarinet, trombone, banjo, mandolin, piano, tuba and drums has a new sound all its own. With a rumbly voice and humorous inflection of 'Yiddishisms,' Sendak seems to delight in reading his latest work. Excellent musicianship serves as fine introduction for listeners not familiar with the form, and additional music tracks, independent of the story, are a bonus for aficionados. Sendak's artwork and a helpful glossary are included in the CD booklet. All ages.
(Oct.
2004)"
Publishers Weekly (Copyright Reed Business Information, Inc.)
"Humorous sounds effects and Drachman's rich, friendly voice and playful storytelling style make this a welcome entry to the genre." Publishers Weekly
"Pleasant musical touches and occasional well-chosen sound effects...Children will enjoy this simple story and the fun way it's presented while following along with the book's cheerful illustrations." AudioFile Magazine
From the acclaimed author of "Leo the Lightning Bug" comes this humorous tale of a little girl who expresses her personality and imagination to her family through whimsical dress-up routines. Includes an audio CD. Full color.
