Songs in the Shade of the Olive Tree Review...

The Secret Mountain Presents the latest in its acclaimed series of international music storybooks:

 

Songs in the Shade of the

Olive Tree

Lullabies and Nursery Rhymes from the Maghreb

 

Colorfully illustrated hardbound story book includes a CD

"The entrancing music of North Africa is featured in a new book-CD for children from The Secret Mountain: Songs in the Shade of the Olive Tree: Lullabies and Nursery Rhymes from the Maghreb. This is the latest release in a series of international titles featuring soothing songs and rhymes performed by singers from various cultures. Produced in Paris under the direction of Hafida Favret, Magdeleine Lerasle and Paul Mindy, the book draws children into a musical journey across North Africa, from the Sahara Desert through the Atlas Mountains to the Mediterranean Sea. In these story-songs about everyday life, children learn about things important for survival in a harsh environment. The rhymes and lullabies refer to the importance of rain, the communal aspects of meals and the consequences of inappropriate behavior.  

The storybook features lyrics to each song reprinted in the original Arabic and translated into English, followed by notes on the origin and cultural context of each song. Full-color illustrations by Algerian-born artist Nathalie Novi provide a vivid context for each piece.

 

The accompanying CD features 30 songs from Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia, hauntingly performed by women, men and children from each culture. The music is a mix of ancient and modern styles recorded with indigenous acoustic instruments."

What we thought:  This line of books/CDs is a great way to introduce children and adults alike to the music and language of different countries.  This particular book and CD are absolutely beautiful!  The illustrations are colorful and really well-done.  They give us a gorgeous look of life in the Maghreb.  We had a great time listening to the CD which is overflowing with some really neat music and lyrics.  ABCD Diaries gives Songs in the Shade of the Olive Tree an A+! 

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