Banana, Banana, Banana Slugs

"They make slime, and then slide over it," Bailey Winters, the young narrator, informs viewers. Perhaps not the most scientific approach to describing the locomotory function of Limax maximum-but much more fun. This short film focuses on a group of California youngsters who confront the mighty banana slug in his element-the California Redwoods. While a sly songster sings a background ode to this curious creature, the kids check out the beast up close. Some are cautious; others hold slugs in both hands. And young Bailey talks about slime, why shells are not necessary for the banana slug ("They taste really bad..."), and how those dangly eyes work. And the filmmakers have given credit where it was due: "An extra special thanks to all the banana slugs that unselfishly gave so much of their time and slime." Unfortunately, the price puts this little nugget out of the reach of most public libraries. Recommended for pre-K through 3rd grades. (Available from: Bullfrog Films, Oley, PA 19547.)