THE POOKA AND THE FIDDLER and HAPPY AS LARRY

These two stories are based on Irish folktales; you'll meet Sean, who's initially lazy and a lousy fiddler until he meets the Pooka, and Larry, who knows the meaning of true happiness. Author Mick Bolger says he wrote the words of the Pooka story, which are told in rhyme, as though they were dictated to him, then worked on the music with his band, Colcannon, in a "spree of creativity." The joyful fun of their collaboration is wonderfully evident. The music (some original, some traditional) is an integral part of the tales. You'll hear fiddles, flutes, fifes, and guitar, along with Mick Bolger's lovely lilting Irish voice, which is terrifically engaging to children and adults alike. The entire family will want to listen to these stories again and again. J.C.G. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 06]