Dora the Explorer: Big Sister Dora

The addition of a baby to a long-running television show is usually a sure sign of dire creative straits and ratings desperation…except in a preschool series, where a new baby can bring up issues that really hit close to home for young siblings-to-be. The very special title episode of this two-fer from Nickelodeon's award-winning animated series conveys the jump-for-joy excitement of welcoming a new member to the family. Our Spanish/English bilingual heroine Dora can't wait to teach, play, share with, and "give great hugs" to her new brother or sister. But first she must find the quickest route home. As always, Map and Backpack point the way and provide the tools to get her there, while pregnant pauses allow viewers at home to respond to Dora's prompting questions. Is the new arrival a boy or a girl? We're not telling. The second episode, "Dora Saves the Game," might also be called "Run, Dora, Run," as viewers are encouraged to run and jump in place as Dora races to the soccer stadium to join her cousin's team in time for the big game (a good workout for the brain and body). DVD extras include the bonus episodes "Job Day" and "A Letter for Swiper." Recommended. Aud: P. (D. Liebenson)