John Denver's For Baby (For Bobbie)

As noted in the afterword for this fifth entry in the John Denver and Kids series, For Baby (For Bobbie), the first song the singer ever recorded, has been interpreted both as a love song and a lullaby. Mason (World's Greatest Explorer) uses the lyrics to celebrate the family ties of all species, and their interconnectedness to the natural world. Detached from Denver's familiar voice, the lyrics come off a touch self-righteously touchy-feely: "I'll walk in the rain by your side,/ I'll cling to the warmth of your hand./ I'll do anything to keep your satisfied,/ I'll love you more than anybody can." Mason fares a little better; although several paintings smack of greeting-card sentimentality, there are a few striking, poster-like images that make the most of her vivid palette and sculptural style (a Hawaiian mother and daughter dance at sunset before a sea streaked with pink, purple, and orange, as humpback whales leap from the water). A score for the song as well as background information on some of the animals seen in the book round out the package, which also includes an audio CD. All ages. (Sept.)