SIR BILLY BEAR AND OTHER FRIENDS

While waiting for the annual CO (clean out--to make room for new toys) before Christmas, each of the toys in the toy basket takes a turn introducing itself and telling an anecdote. Narrator Whitfield is amazing in her range of characterizations; the rapping robot is great. For added magic, Whitfield sings beautifully a WWI song and "As Time Goes By." There are subtle lessons to be learned with each tale in this collection. The intended audience is the very young, but the outstanding presentation of these charming stories can be enjoyed by all. S.G.B. © AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 99]