Hi Ho Librario!

I purchased this book over a year ago and use it constantly! Judy Freeman's material is fresh and gives you the extra boost to start the year or keep your program humming. I especially like the section of "Children's Books to Use with Hi Ho Librario". It has a wealth of information that is practical and easy to use. I would recommend this book to anyone looking to improve their library program.

I was disconcerted to read a prior negative reader review of Judy Freeman's wonderful Hi Ho Librario. My colleagues and I find Freeman's book and CD/cassette of original and classic songs and chants for librarians and teachers to be both uplifting and useful. To give just a few specifics: My elementary school students could readily locate the fairytale section and identify the characteristics of fairytales because of "Look for 398.2." They loved to tell me the difference between fiction and non-fiction by singing the "Non-Fiction Books" chant to me. Other songs and chants can easily be worked in to spark up or supplement daily lessons and activities for librarians and classroom teachers or to enrich the reading of a picture book. Few librarians and teachers are able to play the guitar and sing as skillfully as Freeman. Her CD/cassette allow us and our students to accompany her lively, adept, and satisfying songs and chants. The "Didactic" review is clearly off-target and demonstrates a lack of classroom experience and understanding of children. Children learn best when they enjoy learning. The songs and chants act as mnemonic devices for learning, enliven classes, and help to break the sterotypical "librarians are BORING mold." Brava, Judy.

Judy Freeman renews the experienced Library Media Specialist and inspires the novice. Her use of music and song energize activities in the library and encourage even the nonmusician. Her joy in what she does is contagious; her knowledge of children's literature is impressive.