Doug Unplugged

Narrated by Chris Patton, this iconographic-animated adaptation of author and illustrator Dan Yaccarino's 2013 picture book centers on robot boy Doug, whose parents plug him in each morning, wishing him “Happy downloading!” as he learns a number of facts about city life. However, once Doug notices a real-life pigeon outside, he begins to understand that his education has been limited to a lot of awfully sterile statistics. Setting off with his awesome jet pack, Doug tours the city to go beyond simple figures, where amidst a profusion of bright colors he explores the subway (screeching as it goes around a bend), wet cement, smelly garbage, cool fountain water on a hot day, and friendship. Incorporating fun urban sound effects with neat imagery (such as Doug kneeling over to marvel at a flower growing out of a sidewalk crack), bonus features include a read-along option. Highly recommended. Aud: K, E, P. (J. Williams-Wood)