This is a perfect package -- a poetic, educational story combined with beautiful illustrations and an excellent narration. The book features the animals and plants of Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Tom Chapin starts by reading the story, which is enhanced by soft, ear-pleasing sound effects: music from various instruments, wind rustling the native plants, and realistic animal noises. Then Chapin sings the story, and even though the tune is a familiar one, the Bateman/Chapin rendition is completely original and charming. The song is followed by more detailed facts on prairie flora and fauna. The simple elegance of this trifecta of story, illustrations, and audio makes for a pleasant, relaxing experience for children and their caretakers.

Veteran children's musical performer Tom Chapin brings these titles to life. Both are based on the classic children's rhyme "Over in the Meadow" and introduce children to various animals found in North America. Deep in the Swamp highlights the wildlife of the Okefenokee Swamp in Florida, while Out on the Prairie celebrates creatures found in South Dakota's Badlands National Park. The CD offers three tracks- one with clear page turn signals, one without the turns, and a third that features Chapin singing the text. Chapin's pacing is just right for young readers who are following along; he includes plenty of time for turning pages and appreciation of the excellent illustrations. The song track will perfectly suit listeners who want a more upbeat, fast-paced experience. These titles should appeal to a wide array of nature devotees.