Henry and Mudge and the Snowman Plan

Cynthia Rylant is a master at articulating moments of great import to youngsters. Her children's books grapple with moments of great joy and concern and bring them to satisfying conclusions. The winter excitement of participating in a snowman contest at a family- and dog-filled park is the topic of this Henry and Mudge adventure. The narration moves at just the right pace for the young listener to follow with the accompanying text and pictures. The characters are crisply differentiated, and there is pleasant but unobtrusive background music. Will Henry and his dad win a prize? Listen in. A.R. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine

Would that all young boys could have a satisfying relationship with their fathers and a beloved pet dog--as Henry does with his dad and Mudge! In this adventure, they participate in a snow-creature contest. It's a toss-up whether the spectacle with carrots and broccoli in the park, pets and snow, or the celebratory snowman cookies is the best part of the day. George Guidall is a relaxed narrator who sets his tempo by the activity and excitement level of each chapter. His enjoyment for the simple pleasures of Henry, his dad, and Mudge sparkles through the snowy day. A.R. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine