From Publishers Weekly
Starred Review. The creative team that so cleverly presented musical theater for kids with the star-studded recording
Philadelphia Chickens is back—this time with a mostly rock-and-roll romp, and another stellar cast of musical talent. Blues Traveler, replete with John Popper wailing on his harmonica, rides the rails for the driving title track about, yes, dogs on board a midnight train where "Kittycats are not allowed/ .../ their ears in the breeze/ .../ Their cold, wet, happy,/ quiv'ring noises outside." Mark Lanegan takes the octave down a few notches with his deep and bluesy rendition of "Sneakers" about the favorite footwear that's both comfy and quiet. The 1960s British invasion star Billy J. Kramer sounds every bit up-to-date as he blasts off on the spaceship song "Cow Planet." And who would've thunk that actress Kate Winslet and novelty performer "Weird Al" Yankovic could pull off a sunny and theatrically emotive duet on "I Need a Nap?" There are no clunkers here; other highlights include numbers by Alison Krauss, Spin Doctors, Hootie and the Blowfish and Steve Lawrence and Eydie Gorme (hilariously singing the "Boring Song"). A knockout listen, in all the best ways, for the whole family. Like the songs, Boynton's book showcases her signature zippy sense of humor and loveable critters. It also includes complete lyrics and music for each number and brief profiles of all the performers. All ages.
(Nov.)Note:
There is a Q&A with Sandra Boynton in the November 10 Children's Bookshelf
newsletter. Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
From School Library Journal
PreSchool-Grade 2–This collection of songs erupts with energy, humor, and a strong dose of rock n roll. Like the authors
Philadelphia Chickens (Workman, 2002), the book has a spread for each song–a colorful, cheerful illustration and excerpts of lyrics–followed by complete lyrics and musical scores at the end. An About the Artists section includes a photo and biographical sketch of each artist who performs on the accompanying CD. As she did for
Chickens, Boynton has brought together an impressive assortment of talent, including Kate Winslet, Blues Traveler, and the Bacon brothers.
Train stands apart from the earlier title for its stronger rock edge and narrative thread. Interwoven throughout the album are three songs about the quest to discover Cow Planet, beginning with an homage to
2001: A Space Odyssey. Boynton captures a childs perspective of tantrums, naps, and daily life. A poignant Penguin Lament by John Ondrasik of Five for Fighting asks, Can anyone small…be anyone serious? The toe-tapping Wave Bye-Bye immediately grabs listeners with its lively tune and a childs earnest desire to leave an adult party. Smart, funny, and encompassing a variety of music styles from Broadway to Sinatra to alternative rock, the book and CD together deliver enjoyable reading and listening for both children and adults.
–Suzanne Myers Harold, Multnomah County Library System, Portland, OR Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
by Sandra Boynton
by Michael Ford
by Michael Ford
by Sandra Boynton
by Sandra Boynton
