The Book Shelf: From the Stratford Public Library
Are you taking a family car trip this summer?  Borrowing a children’s book on CD for the trip may lessen your chances of hearing that frequently-asked question, “Are we there yet?” The Stratford Public Library has a growing collection of books on CD, which are usually borrowed for a three-week period. Two examples are reviewed below.

The Mercy Watson Collection: Volume 1
by Kate DiCamillo
42 minutes
@ SPL: J FIC KIT DiCam

This book on CD contains two unabridged stories, Mercy Watson to the Rescue and Mercy Watson Goes for a Ride, written by Newbery Award-winner, Kate DiCamillo (author of Because of Winn-Dixie, The Tale of Despereaux and The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane). The stories are read aloud – with lots of expression and enthusiasm – by American actor Ron McLarty.
Mercy Watson, the beloved porcine pet of Mr. and Mrs. Watson, is a pig with personality who can do no wrong – even when she breaks the Watson’s bed or refuses to get out of the driver’s seat of the car! Children will warm immediately to Mercy’s endearing, delightful personality as they follow her hilarious adventures and misadventures.
The Mercy Watson Collection: Volume 2, containing the stories Mercy Watson Fights Crime and Mercy Watson, Princess in Disguise, is also available as a book on CD at the Stratford Public Library.
** Recommended for ages 4 to 7 years of age.

Love That Dog: A Novel
by Sharon Creech
60 minutes
@ SPL: J FIC KIT Creec

This book on CD features actor Scott Wolf reading aloud the unabridged story of Love That Dog: A Novel as written by another Newbery Award-winning author, Sharon Creech (Walking Two Moons, Chasing Redbird). It’s a heart-warming story of how words really can change one’s life, as they did for one boy, Jack, who was convinced that he would always dislike poetry. Little by little, encouraged by his teacher, Jack began to see some relevance in the poetry he was reading. Eventually he found that poetry was a satisfying way for him to express his complex feelings about his beloved dog, Sky.
One review has stated, “This is the perfect audio for the millions of boys who think they hate poetry.” (USA Today)
** Recommended for ages 7 to 12 years of age.
 
The Stratford Public Library also offers a wide selection of downloadable audio books for children and teens (as well as adults) – another handy option for travellers. These titles can be transferred to an MP3 player, and some can be burned to a CD. Many of the titles, available in just about every genre, are unabridged. For instructions and a selection of downloadable titles, please visit www.stratford.library.on.ca/downloadlibrary.html.

– Sally Hengeveld, librarian