Denise Fleming’s Caldecott Honor book is a field guide to the pond for the youngest reader and viewer. Her pictures, created from her hallmark papers, brightly depict various creatures in spirited, yet typical postures. Her words describe the actions and are positioned on the page to further explain the meaning of each. As narrator, Laura Dern takes this one step further and matches her speed and inflection to both the word and the creature’s action. A crescendo rises with the activity in and around the pond as the seasons change and fades to the sl-o-w beat of hibernation. Animal sound effects complement the text. Look carefully for the frog as you listen to the action near the pond!
Ages 4-6Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2002
Duration: 5 mins
Publisher: Weston Woods Studios
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
In this clever parody of how language developed, Brooke displays his master storytelling skills. He is adept at making Mog and the other prehistoric characters of his imagination become real. Drawing the characters out with preverbal grunts and other suggestive intonation, he makes it easy for listeners to enter the world of the caveman, which is hilariously described. Brooke's presentation is energetic and true to the unconventional humor and innuendo used throughout the story. Social satire on complex economic and political systems is brought down to its simplest form. This audiobook is a true treat for children, and its focus on the wonder of language will interest linguistic and grammar aficionados. Included at the end is an enlightening interview with the author.
Ages 10+Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2001
Duration: 6 hrs
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This love letter to Hawaiian culture, performed by Barrie Kealoha, follows a girl raised with hula and ancestral pride. The reprises of "what hula taught her" add structure to an otherwise thin plot. Kealoha fluidly delivers the vocabulary of her culture that are peppered throughout the English rhymes. Her soothing voice adds a lullaby quality that is perfect for young children. Slight pauses alert the listener when she reaches the end of each page, making this production a perfect companion for the listener who has the book in hand. Experiencing this audiobook without looking at the vibrant pictures would yield only half the experience for the audience.
(Picture book. 4-8)Pub Date: Feb. 28, 2025
Duration: 8 mins
DD ISBN: 9781666688696
Publisher: Dreamscape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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