Video -- Giggle, Giggle, Quack

Title: Giggle, Giggle, Quack and more stories

Author: Doreen Cronin, illustrated by Betsy Lewin, Harry Bliss

Date: 2004


Produced and Distributed by: Weston Woods Studio, Inc. and Scholastic Storybook Treasures

UPC: 767685215852

Format: DVD

Summary: A read-along DVD, this collection features five videos: Giggle, Giggle, Quack, Dooby Dooby Moo, Duck for President, Diary of a Worm and Diary of a Fly. All five stories are written by Doreen Cronin. The videos are animated and narrated, while providing the text at the bottom of the screen.

Audience: This video is recommended for ages 3-8. However, for younger viewers who are not yet able to read along the videos may not be as interested in the content. Children 5 and up may be a better audience.

Strengths: The videos are well illustrated and narrated, giving the characters personality that keep viewers engaged in the story. There are five videos on the disc that provide almost an hour an a half of watching time, but the videos themselves are short enough to keep younger viewers engaged throughout. The words at the bottom of the screen help viewers practice their reading skills while allowing them to participate in the story. The videos include material to help children learn about animals and life on a farm and are entertaining enough that parents can also enjoy watching the videos along with their children. The disc provides two of the videos in Spanish, an interview with the illustrator and discussion questions included with the five videos.

Weaknesses: These five videos are set at a relatively slow pace in order to allow viewers to read along with the narrator. While this is ideal for children learning to read, it can make it difficult for the videos to hold the attention of younger children not yet able to participate in the read-along. Compared to modern-day cartoons available to children, these can appear lack-luster to younger viewers and they may get bored with the videos.

Uses: This video collection is useful in helping children develop their reading comprehensive skills, vocabulary and problem solving. It can also be used to teach children about life on a farm, farm animals and facts about worms and flies.

Awards: Andrew Carnegie Medal winner

Giggle, Giggle, Quack Trailer