Bailey's Birthday

MarshMedia's newest iconographic video (for the last, Pequena the Burro, see VL-7/94) offers a winning story set in New York City about a black girl named Margot who is anxiously awaiting her 7th birthday, which she plans to celebrate with her dog Bailey (who will be having his first birthday). On a visit to Central Park, Margot and Bailey spend an afternoon with Margot's friend Nicki and her dog Claudia. Presented from the dog's point-of-view, Bailey and Claudia share a little gossip and Bailey learns that birthdays mean lots of presents. Unfortunately, Margot's father is looking for a job, and the family is working within a tight budget. On the day of the birthday party, Bailey is initially disappointed, but he ends up learning a good lesson about something more important than material gifts: the love and support of a family. Based on the book of the same name, written by Elizabeth Happy and illustrated by Andra Chase, Bailey's Birthday is pleasantly narrated by Bob Walkenhorst, and would make a good addition to larger children's collections. Ages 4-9. Recommended. (R. Pitman)