Words of Wisdom: LifeSongs for Kids

Any children's music program that aims to appeal to kids from "4-14" is in trouble from the get: how do you encompass tastes that range from Barney to Marilyn Manson? With its mildly didactic messages about Bill Bennett's virtues (honesty, respect, self-esteem, etc.), this compilation of seven music videos features Daryl Wicker performing tunes that come across as closer to "easy listening" than the "top ten" sound the producers boast on the accompanying material. Skits about a teenage girl cleaning the entire house because she sassed her mom about straightening up her room, or a young boy stealing a sports card from his best friend and later returning it, are interwoven with shots of Wicker singing songs with lyrics that cover the subject but aren't terribly clever (nothing like Sharon, Lois & Bram or Joe Scruggs here). Still, the idea is well-meaning, and it might initiate discussion in younger kids, but I can't imagine teens actually paying attention to this. An optional purchase. Aud: K, E, I, P. (R. Pitman)