Snoopy Presents: It's the Small Things, Charlie Brown

A refreshingly sweeter spin on the Peanuts of old, this eco-conscious new special will captivate young viewers while teaching a few worthwhile lessons on integrity, empathy, and activism. Snoopy Presents: It's the Small Things, Charlie Brown is a Peanuts franchise update along the same lines as The Peanuts Movie. Sometimes the old Peanuts specials aren't as gentle as remembered; instead of a fun-loving crew of misfits, the gang can be a group of somewhat sullen kids who don't treat each other all that well.

With the exception of Lucy's persistent bad attitude, this time around the gang displays empathy and consideration from the get-go. Charlie's concern for his little sister, and his willingness to keep his word even when it goes against what he wants, is especially touching. Sadly, one thing that doesn't get updated is the show's lack of diversity: The only named character of color in the special, Franklin, is given just one speaking line. Parents of preschoolers will appreciate that the positive messages are not only more overt than in other shows, but sprinkled throughout the special and not just left for the end. This is a throwback worth your time, embracing the slower pacing and innocence of its predecessors while leaving their flaws in the past.