Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Author-illustrator-lyricist Boynton and her musical collaborator Ford (Philadelphia Chickens) are back with another entertaining book-and-CD moosical. This time the inspiration is the shake-and-shimmy doo-wop and rock styles of 1950s and '60s jukebox hits. These toe-tapping, and, yes, finger-snapping, original songs are performed by an accomplished lineup of artists who perfectly capture the era. The catchy lyrics (and musical notation, too) are given prominence, set against the book's humorous, diner-centric scenes featuring Boynton's recognizable animal pals. Tracks include B.B. King singing the hilarious "One Shoe Blues," Gerry and the Pacemakers performing "Mersey Lullaby," Sha Na Na's "Gorilla Song" and the title track as interpreted by crooner Steve Lawrence. Among the other familiar voices are Patti LuPone, Brian Wilson and Davy Jones. Thank goodness no coins are required; every track begs repeated play. All ages. (Oct.) (c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
(c) Copyright PWxyz, LLC. All rights reserved
Review by School Library Journal Review
Gr 3 Up-Boynton is at it again, celebrating music with a CD/book kit that's filled with lots of '50s-style fun. She's urging her audience to gather 'round for "17 Jukebox Hits from Way Back Never," sung by a cast of recognizable names from that era. Well, they'll certainly be recognized by the grandparents, anyway. But grandparents, parents, and children alike can enjoy this collection as they listen to such classics as "One Shoe Blues," sung by none other than B.B. King; "Blue Moo," sung by Steve Lawrence; and three numbers by "The Uninvited Loud Precision Band." There's "Speed Turtle," sung in pure Beach Boys-style by Brian Wilson; "With You," a '50s-style love song by Bobby Vee; and "Rabbit Tango," performed with great verve and panache by Patti Lupone. "About the Singers" includes a photo, biography, and past hits for each artist, even those who are fictitious. Each song is labeled in jukebox fashion: A-1 through A-14. As she did with Philadelphia Chickens (Workman, 2002), Boynton has combined a roster of celebrity singers, good humor, and lots of creativity for a gift of music and fun for every member of the family.-Jane Marino, Bronxville Public Library, NY (c) Copyright 2010. Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
(c) Copyright Library Journals LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of Media Source, Inc. No redistribution permitted.
