Deep in the Swamp
1 Paperback/1 CD (see all formats)

"Musician and storyteller Chapin brings his talents to Bateman's sweet story of swamp mothers and their young. Chapin uses his reassuring voice to read slowly enough that readers will be able to follow along in the accompanying book. The narration (on two tracks, one with and one without page-turn signals) is accompanied by realistic swamp sound effects like croaking bullfrogs, buzzing damselflies, splashing water, and chirping crickets. Chapin then sings the words in a folksy song version using the familiar tune "Over in the Meadow" (which is available alone on the third track), followed by a straightforward reading of facts about the animals, plants, and habitats mentioned in the text. A treat for young listeners."

"What a treat to have the venerable Tom Chapin narrate this Okefenokee remake of the familiar "Over in the Meadow"! Meet snoozing marsh rabbits, soaring herons, trilling flame birds, and basking alligators, to mention just a few of the marsh's inhabitants. Chapin is understated and unhurried in his narration. For dramatic effect, he elongates phrases--"Deeeeep in the swamp"--or slows--"where the water lilies thrive"--for consideration of the rich language. His pauses leave time for the swamp creature sound effects and for poring over Brian Lies's illustrations. The production includes Chapin singing the story, accompanying himself with various instruments, and a glossary of swamp inhabitants."

"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."