From the perennial classics, such as the titular “Old MacDonald Had a Farm,” to lesser-known traditional tunes, like “Mr. Sun,” this is a passable song anthology illustrated in bubble-gum colors.
The lyrics of each song are reproduced on single- or double-page spreads, while friendly animals and pink-cheeked people demonstrate the action. Wood’s soft and hazy cartoons are lively and tooth-achingly cute. With all the multitude of traditional songs available, it is troublesome that the compilers chose and didn’t update the antiquated “Farmer in the Dell” line: “The farmer takes a wife.” No directions for singing the additional verses of “Bingo” or movements for some of the action songs, such as “I’m a Little Teapot,” are included in these pages. With no CD or music notation, this title is only for parents or others familiar with these traditional tunes.
Since there are plenty of lovely and more complete anthologies of children’s songs available, this is strictly an additional purchase. (Board book. 6 mos.-3)
