Children’s Books That Delight Both Eyes And Ears

I love sharing books with my girls and I still have some of my favorite books from childhood. I have to admit, though, I can be a bit of a book snob. There are the cheapy throwaway little books I carry in my “mama’s bag of tricks” to the pediatrician’s office and then there are beautiful gift type books that I will save some day for my grandchildren.

I was truly excited to learn about the award-winning stories and music from children’s publisher The Secret Mountain. Each beautifully illustrated book comes with an accompanying music CD; many of the songs are performed by Grammy-nominated and much lauded musicians and artists such as Shawn Colvin, Willie Nelson, Mary Chapin Carpenter, and Connie Kaldor.

We recently had the chance to review three delightful books from The Secret Mountain and our favorite was A Duck in New York City, winner of numerous awards including a Juno Award for Children’s Album of the Year and a National Parenting Publications Association Honors Award. My girls ask to listen to the Duck in New York City CD every day in the car. The songs are endearing and fun to sing for both kids and parents (no annoying Barney-esque tunes that will make you want to gouge your eyeballs out with a juice box straw.) The Duck in New York City CD ranges from the upbeat Broadway-esque title song that will give you the urge to kick up your heels like a Rockette to the cute and catchy Belly Button song.

We’ve been reading A Duck in New York City at bedtime. My 6-year-old loves reading it aloud and the positive message of “Yes You Can!” is reinforced throughout this inspiring story of a little duck from the prairie who wants to make it big on Broadway.

If you’re looking for a nice addition to your child’s library or a unique Christmas gift, be sure to check out all that The Secret Mountain has to offer. I’m adding A Poodle in Paris and My Name is Chicken Joe to our book wish list! What books are on your holiday wish list for your kids? (And hey, you too.)

Thanks to Team Mom for another great review opportunity!