PreS—Gr 3—The Horace B. Smedley School's football team was in an endless slump, which upset the entire student body. "Even the cafeteria ladies lost their sparkle," intones narrator Diana Canova in Miss Nelson Has a Field Day, the James Marshall classic. That is, until the dreaded Viola Swamp comes to the rescue. The tune of a coach's whistle, the pep band, and even spaghetti Western chords bring this riotous story to life. Miriam Cohen's Will I Have a Friend? has calmed generations of wary new kindergartners and introduced them to the delights awaiting them on their first day of school. Barney Saltzberg's Crazy Hair Day features a hamster with gelled spikes and colorful rubber bands in his hair. To his horror, he discovers he has worn his wild hairdo on the wrong day! His classmates respond with humor and problem-solving techniques, which will encourage children to do the same. Plus, kids can sing along to Saltzberg's music video and rock out with the animated antics. In the bonus interview with the author, viewers learn his book was inspired by a young chemotherapy patient whose classmates shaved their heads so the boy would feel welcomed back after his ordeal. Learning guides provide excellent activities, games, and discussion starters on team building and friendship.
VERDICT Outstanding music, animation, and classic tales make this collection of rereleased videos a must-buy for back-to-school purchases.
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