THE STORY OF HARMELODIA

Wojewoda, M. P. & Rheostatics (Producers). (1999). Rheostatics: the story of harmelodia. Halifax, NS: Rerimeter Records.

Plot Summary
This is the story of Dog and Bug, two children from Harmelodia who go for a stroll in their neighbourhood park, and fall into a hole in the ground and end up in the land of Popopolis.  
In Popopolis, they discover many curious and amazing instrument. While trhing to find their way home, they discover many magical and beautiful instrument.  By playing these instruments, they learn that magical things can occur, including reaching their father far away in Harmelodia. 


 Review
This is a fabulous book/musical compilation that is suitable for adults and children alike. Readers are able to follow along with the text in the storybook, and then pause to listen to the songs that the Rhoestatics composed for the album. The illustrations captivate the magical mood of the story, and encourage the listener to embark on the journey with Dot and Bug. 
This is not a typical audio book, as the songs are complex, and may not engage a young child listener. However, a young teen could find this book of interest, and appreciate the sounds and music in the album.
 


Age Range - 11-adult

Rating





****

RAMONA'S WORLD

Cleary, B. (1999). Ramona's world. New York, NY: Morrow Junior Books.

Plot Summary
 Ramona Quimby is starting the fourth grade, "the best year of her life, so far". However, she soon discovers the many challenges of being a big sister, as she is expected to act as a strong role-model to her baby sister.  She also finds it very frustrating to live up to her older sister's responsible nature. Ramona must work hard to improve her spelling and she is expected to spend more time with Susan, a "friend" whom she does not like.


Review
This is a great book for children. The challenges that Ramona faces are typical of her age, and the drama that she faces is hilarious. The text is supported with funny images that depict Ramona's world. The book is broken into chapters, which allows the reader to experience a sense of accomplishment with every chapter.
I would highly recommend this book to any reader - reluctant or not. 

Age Range - 8-12


 Rating


****

GO, DOG. GO!

Eastman, P.D. (1961). Go, dog. go! New York, NY: Random House, Inc.

Plot Summary
A rhyming story about several colourful dogs; a blue dog, a green dog, a white dog, a yellow dog and a pink dog. The book follows the dogs as they explore a maze, sit on tree-tops, drive cars, ride on a roller-coaster, ski, and much more. 



Review
This storybook introduces many basic learning concepts to young readers. It features many repetitive words and phrases, to foster and encourage comprehension. In addition, the book introduces important concepts, such as " It is hot here in the sun", and  "Stop, dogs. Stop! The [street] light is red now."
The rhyming scheme does not flow as well as other Dr. Seuss books, such as, The Cat in the Hat, and, One Fish Two Fish Red Fish Blue Fish, however, I think that the dogs are funny, and they certainly get into some funny trouble that is sure to entertain toddlers.


Age Range-1-4


Rating 

***