Peep And The Big Wide World

Peter Ustinov narrates this delightful tale of three young birds' first encounters with the "big, wide world." In the opening episode, Peep, a newly hatched chick figures out some important concepts (like what legs are for) and meets Quack, a cranky duckling, who takes Peep to Green Island, where they find Chirp, a fledgling robin. Episode 2 finds our trio stranded Robinson Crusoe style, since only Quack can tread water. Unlikely help comes in the form of Tom, the kitten, whom the three birds eventually outwit, finally making their way safely to the mainland. In the final episode, Peep, Quack, and Chirp rove the countryside, and meet a wide array of creatures (a cautious turtle, a grouchy ladybug, and a frog with indigestion) before discovering Nellie, the sheepdog and a safe haven after their exhausting and fearful trip. Ustinov's wonderful voice talents combined with the simple, yet effective, drawings of Kaj Pindal, make Peep and the Big Wide World an enjoyable treat for youngsters that will bring a smile to the faces of older family members too. Highly recommended. [Note: While the 3-tape format is well-suited to schools, some public libraries may find this arrangement inconvenient. If requested, the National Film Board of Canada will put all three episodes on one tape.] (Available from: NFB Library, 350 No. Pennsylvania Ave., P.O. Box 7600, Wilkes-Barre, PA 19773-7600; 1-800-542-2164.)