DON'T TAKE YOUR ELEPHANT TO SCHOOL

This abecedarian of poetry, read by the author, is a laugh a letter. In a matter-of-fact voice Turner delivers the gross, silly, and whimsical rhymes children love best. His dry recital provides contrast to his acrobatic rhymes, creating the sort of irony children appreciate. Occasionally, as in the poem about toilet synonyms, the Briticisms may stymie American listeners, but as a whole the recording remains as accessible to Americans as it is to its original British audience. While there are no gimmicks or frills to this straightforward recording, the poet's playful use of language gives his collection substance and appeal. C.A. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 08]