Celery Night Fever

Gr 1–4—This animated series presents Bible lessons through talking vegetables Jerry Zucchini, Bob the Tomato, Larry Cucumber, and others, and includes songs with inspirational messages. This tale is about friendship and forgiveness, and references Ephesians 4:32, "Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other as God has forgiven you." Bob the Tomato receives a letter from Jason, who is angry with his brother for getting a flat tire in his new bike. The writer inquires about what he should do. Bob explains God's message of forgiveness through the lives at an elementary school Grandfathers' Day program. One of the granddads, Mr. Onion, now a redeveloper, wants to tear down Celery Park and turn it into a parking lot. Students Laura Carrot and Junior Asparagus come up with an idea to save the city park. Can the famous Groovy Brothers Band reunite to play for the Celery Night Fever fundraiser? Laura's grandfather, who was in the group, wonders aloud why the band broke up 30 years ago, not remembering the reason—personal grudges. Side plots support the main message while friendly and likable characters promote healthy eating, and everyone comes together at the end. Even Mr. Onion and his tuba join the Groovy Brothers to sing along to a disco anthem, "Everything is better, we'll be friends forever." At the end, Bob the Tomato returns to Jason's letter and advises him that just as God made him special and forgives and loves him, Jason should be able to forgive his brother. This is an enjoyable and meaningful program, suited for public libraries and Catholic and Christian schools.—Mary Lee Bulat, Harwinton Public Library, CT