George and Martha (Read Along Book and CD)

George and Martha (Read Along Book and CD) written and illustrated by James Marshall, read by Jeff Loeb, Houghton Mifflin Co., 2007. 978-0-618-83951-3, approximately 31 minutes on one audio CD with accompanying 47 page book. $10.99

Annotation: The friendship of George and Martha, the lovable hippopotamus duo, is explored in these five humorous tales featuring split pea soup, a lost tooth, and practical jokes.

Summary: This collection of the five very short stories contained within the original George and Martha book detail the exploits and interactions between the two best friends. Sometimes they are silly, sometimes they are cross, sometimes they drive each other up the wall, but always, their affection for each other carries the day. 

From split pea soup that neither of them likes, to a hot air balloon that can't get off the ground, to George breaking his bad habit of peeking in windows, to Martha breaking her bad habit of vanity, to George losing his favorite front tooth, the two friends are inseparable through thick and thin (mostly thick, due to their being hippo-sized). 

As an added bonus, this Read Along edition includes an extra track, George and Martha Back in Town which features five more adventures involving high dives, Mexican jumping beans, more practical jokes, and lifeguarding.

The tracks may be enjoyed with page turn signals or without, and Jeff Loeb's engaging reading style, along with the accompanying jazz music, make for an enjoyable listening experience.

Critical Evaluation: For children beginning their journey into literacy, read along books provide a bridge to reading comprehension, focusing skills, and listening abilities. This particular recording is adaptable to a range of literacy levels due to its customizable page turn signals setting.

With the high quality recording and production, as well as the humorous tone the Loeb brings to the narrative, this audio adaptation of a classic picture book has captured the original spirit of Marshall's characters. 

While Marshall's illustrative style appears simple at first glance, upon further examination it becomes clear that it is only due to his high level of talent that allows the illustrations to appear so uncomplicated. He has stripped each piece of artwork down to its core, removing all extraneous matter, and leaving only the essential surroundings and details to further the story line. 

Even so, with such a spare style, Marshall conveys a great deal of emotion, humor, and action in his portrayal of the two hippopotami. Children will empathize with the troubles, and celebrate the triumphs of George and Martha, because their foibles and flaws will seem familiar to anyone who has ever had a best friend.

Age or Interest Level: Ages 3 to 7

Lexile Level: 500L (For book portion of the set)

Awards: ---

Why Included? The George and Martha books are a complex blend of the kindness and faithfulness of a good friend, as well as the maddening familiarity and ridiculous situations that having a best friend can bring.