Common Sense Note
Parents need to know that the 12 songs on this album are original tunes guaranteed to make kids chuckle. Grown-up ears will likely enjoy the clever lyrics and diverse musical styles and inspirations (Caribbean and Cajun among others). It's also a Parent's Choice Gold Medal winner.
Families can talk about some of the themes of the album. Are there times when your kids are afraid to ask a question for fear of seeming stupid? Do they feel comfortable speaking up at school and asking for explanations when they're not sure? What about at home?
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Amy Weaver Dorning
I WANNA PLAY, the latest creation of legendary children's musician and storyteller, Bill Harley, takes kids' music beyond the realm of the merely cute and upbeat. Grammy-award winner Harley has been called the "Mark Twain of contemporary kids' music," no doubt because of his folksy wisdom and gently satiric slant. Songs like "Barbie's Head is Missing" and "You've Got to Ask" each tell a story from a child's point-of-view, with both humor and sympathy. After all, what little brother wouldn't panic when he realizes the dog has eaten Barbie's head after he "innocently" removed it ("it's not like she had brains anyway"). Though at times the tone is a bit earnest (especially in "At Your Library"), it is balanced out by the offbeat humor and gentle irony of the rest of the album.
Families who enjoy this CD should check out Peter Himmelman's My Green Kite or anything by the Wee Hairy Beasties.
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Social Behavior"At Your Library" invites kids to discover the joys of reading. Another songs talks about having the courage to ask questions: "You've got to ask if you don't know/you've got to ask, that's how you grow." |
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