Mary Engelbreit's Mother Goose

Score one for tradition. For listeners seeking a classic collection of the beloved nursery rhymes, this volume collected by author/artist Engelbreit and read in a bright and inviting tone by Redgrave will be the perfect cup of tea. The British actress is an inspired choice here, providing crisp pronunciation and lilting rhythm throughout. Cheery and playful without being silly, her performance catches all the fun-to-say and fun-to-hear elements of the verse. Marcus leads off with his praise of Mother Goose's ability to encourage children's love of language. From there, Redgrave's reading is largely unfettered, with brief pauses between each rhyme and a snippet of guitar instrumentals nestled after every 10selections. The recording works fine as a standalone, but may also serve as a read-along with Engelbreit's simultaneously released—and intricately illustrated—anthology of the same name. All ages. (Sept.)