Mary Engelbreit's Mother Goose

Lynn Redgrave is an inspired choice as narrator of this expansive collection of 100 Mother Goose rhymes. Her expressive voice brings to life all the well-known characters (Humpty Dumpty, Jack and Jill, Little Bo-Peep) while introducing you to a few you may not have met (like Little Poll Parrot and Terrence McDiddler). She brings drama and dignity even to the shortest and silliest verses, which are interspersed with occasional gentle guitar music. If you are listening with little children, you'll want to skip the academic introduction read by Leonard S. Marcus (critic of children's literature). It stands in humorous contrast to the short and snappy rhymes themselves (averaging 10-15 seconds) that follow. J.C.G. (c) AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine

Starred review from November 14, 2005
Score one for tradition. For listeners seeking a classic collection of the beloved nursery rhymes, this volume collected by author/artist Engelbreit and read in a bright and inviting tone by Redgrave will be the perfect cup of tea. The British actress is an inspired choice here, providing crisp pronunciation and lilting rhythm throughout. Cheery and playful without being silly, her performance catches all the fun-to-say and fun-to-hear elements of the verse. Marcus leads off with his praise of Mother Goose's ability to encourage children's love of language. From there, Redgrave's reading is largely unfettered, with brief pauses between each rhyme and a snippet of guitar instrumentals nestled after every 10selections. The recording works fine as a standalone, but may also serve as a read-along with Engelbreit's simultaneously released—and intricately illustrated—anthology of the same name. All ages.

February 1, 2006
PreS-Gr 1 -British actress Lynn Redgrave reads 100 Mother Goose rhymes from Mary Engelbreit -s book (HarperCollins, 2005). Included at the beginning of the CD is a history of Mother Goose rhymes, read by children -s literature critic Leonard S. Marcus, which may be helpful to teachers, but is not necessarily aimed at children. Redgrave -s audio performance is professional and matronly. The verses themselves have lost some exposure in the past years, and the recording will be appreciated by those looking for a simple, unadorned reading. The audio version would be best utilized as a companion to the book so that Engelbreit -s charming, witty illustrations can enhance the reading. Appropriate for group or individual listening, these classic rhymes will make a solid addition to audio collections. -"Kirsten Martindale, formerly Menomonie Public Library, WI"

Copyright 2006 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.