"Songs in the Shade of the Flamboyant Tree" Book/CD Review...

Soothing Summer Listening from Not-So-Faraway Islands Songs in the Shade of the Flamboyant Tree: French Creole Lullabies and Nursery Rhymes Colorfully illustrated hardbound story book includes a CD featuring songs and chants performed by mothers and children, available for the first time in North America, from The Secret Mountain

"The Secret Mountain is proud to announce the release of the second book-CD in their international collection of soothing songs for family listening. Songs in the Shade of the Flamboyant Tree: French Creole Lullabies and Nursery Rhymeswill be available for the first time in North America this summer. Produced in Paris under the direction of Chantal Grosléziat andPaul Mindy, this collection of songs features adults and children singing in French Creole, a language spoken in several dialects by more than seven million people. The songs and performers hail from the tropical islands of Haiti, Guadaloupe, Martinique and Reunion Island, all reflecting the rich oral heritage of children’s music in those countries. These sweet tunes are perfect for the quiet times of family life, while adding energizing Caribbean rhythms to the day. About the STORYBOOK Through Laurent Corvaisier's colorful tunes and splashy illustrations reminiscent of the vibrant flamboyant tree, this collection of lullabies and nursery rhymes celebrates life’s passages and various island rituals. Lyrics are reproduced in the original French Creole dialects and translated into English, followed by notes on the origin and cultural context of each song. I Laurent Corvaisier's illustration for the song "Manman Mwen" from Martinique and Guadeloupe. About the MUSIC CD The accompanying CD features 30 traditional songs recorded with indigenous acoustic instruments and exquisitely performed by women, men, and children. The Secret Mountain creates children’s books, apps, videos and music of the highest quality. The French imprint – La Montagne Secrète – is hailed as one of the most original and innovative children’s publishing houses in Canada and France. The company recently made its United States debut with award-winning music, DVDs and books. Previous titles from this world lullaby storybook-music CD series include Songs from the Baobob Tree (2011)." For more information, visit www.thesecretmountain.com More Details about  Songs in the Shade of the Flamboyant Tree Hardcover with CD, 62 pages. CD duration: 48 minutes. Full color illustrations, song translations. Recommended ages: 3 to 7. Suggested retail price: $16.95 (US) What we thought:  This is a really neat way to introduce the Creole-French culture to children.  Both A and D really enjoyed reading the colorful book full of beautiful illustrations and listening to the CD during quiet time.  The music is just as colorful as the book, but at the same time relaxing.  This book/CD combo would make a great addition to your child's library.  ABCD Diaries gives "Songs in the Shade of the Flamboyant Tree" an A+!

Disclosure:  ABCD Diaries was given samples  for review purposes only. We were in no other way compensated. The opinions expressed in this post are ours and ours alone.