Shoebox Town

Shoebox Town. Performed by Tracy Newman. CD. Approx.43 min. Produced by Edward Auslender. 2018. $14.98.

Pre-S-Gr 2--

For her first album for children, Tracy Newman received Parents’ Choice Foundation Gold and NAPPA Gold Awards. Tracy honed her writing skills as an American television producer and writer, and helped create the hit ABC comedy, According to Jim (2001-2009). She is also the sister of talented comedienne Laraine Newman, known for being one of the original cast members on Saturday Night Live. In fact, Laraine chimes in on one of this album’s songs—“I’m Not Small.” Tracy performs 15 songs, 9 of which she wrote, and six covers. This second album features lovely harmonies and a variety of musical styles, including pop, folk pop, bluegrass, and Hawaiian folk. “I Love a Carousel” also features calliope-like sounds. The backup instrumentalists give excellent performances on guitar, banjo, ukulele, violin, cello, harp, bass, clarinet, flute, Irish whistles, trombone, bandoneon, accordion, drums and percussion. “Hide and Seek” celebrates that traditional children’s game. The “Little Bitty Fish” wants to be wiser and to wander. When mom gives her daughter an old shoebox, she makes a “Shoebox Town,” and is soon joined by her dad and brother. “Dance Like a Lady” will have listeners following along with the participatory movements. “Aren’t You Glad You’ve Got a Friend?” features Tracy’s daughter Charlotte. The sticky from a “Sticky Little Lollipop” ends up all over the house. Enjoying time playing outdoors, a youngster pleads “Don’t Let Time Catch Me.” Newman gives an awesome performance on Malvina Reynolds’ “Magic Penny” (“Love is something if you give it away”). And she asks if listeners would like to be a “Zilli Billionaire.” Silly rhymes abound in “Sing Along With Me.” There’s no place better to be than “Here in Hawaii.” Listeners are encouraged to slow down and “In Stillness Watch.” The final lullaby, “Sleep, Sleep, Sleep” is sung in English and French. This album will appeal to listeners young and old.