Peep and the Big World

PreS—This animated series features Peep, a chick; Chirp, a red bird; and Quack, a blue duck who looks more like a jellybean. The action is usually dominated by Quack, the lovable foil who is completely lacking in self-control and causes all kinds of problems and adventures for his friends. The eight simple and humorous stories have a light science or problem-solving aspect. For example, in "The Sounds of Silence, Pt. 1," Quack is dared into not talking so the friends can listen to the natural world. In another tale, they must solve the problem of getting water-fearing Chirp off the top of Peep's can when it has been surrounded by water. Each episode offers science-related information, such as the fact that beavers' teeth never stop growing. Actress Joan Cusack's distinctive voice and expressive narration move the stories along. Each tale is followed by a brief segment showing children exploring one of its themes. They freeze water, observe the night sky, and mix up a variety of ingredients to make the perfect sculpting compound, among other activities. Children will be entertained and caregivers will learn some great ways to help their charges become more curious observers of their world.—Constance Dickerson, Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library, OH