The Scrambled States of America... and More Stories to Celebrate Our Country (Scholastic Video Collection)

Rating:
Summary: Very good, especially if using the read along mode
Review: I have 4 children (from 4-8). This DVD allows for optional read/sing along, which if used, enhances each of the individual presentations immensely. All of my kids enjoy the DVD, but it's particularly great for patriotic learning occasions (as mentioned by another reviewer). The full length Aretha version of the Star Spangled Banner is alone worth the price!

Rating:
Summary: Beautiful tribute to the USA
Review: It always amazes me how people see things differently (see other review.) I agree that this is not one of the more lighthearted & "catchy" Scholastic videos of the lot, but it has SO much to offer. This is an especially good choice for an older child. The cover story "Scrambled States of America" is hilarious and has many hidden humors within it that grown-ups will even appreciate. The other stories that the other reviewer referred to are anything but boring. Rarely do I want to sit & watch what my kids are watching, but I find that I can't resist this one. I couldn't believe my ears the other day, when I heard my 4 year old son singing the words to "This Land is Your Land." And I could NEVER consider Peter Spier's drawings to be boring!!! As a child I used to sit & stare at his books for hours on end. The animation to the "Star Spanled Banner" and all the verses that we usually never get to hear are absolutely BEAUTIFUL (sung by Aretha Franklin)!!! I get goose bumps & cry every time I watch it. This DVD is very educational. Bonus stories include John Henry and Johnny Appleseed. I have to admit, we don't watch this DVD as much as the others, but I love to pull it out on July 4th, Veteran's Day, election day, etc. I never feel guilty letting my kids watch the Scholastic Video Collection!

Rating:
Summary: Not One of Their Best
Review: The first illustrated story about the scrambled states keeps your interest, but the two other illustrations are totally musical, the songs are too long, and get boring. Doesn't hold your interest. Not one of Scholastics' better videos.

Rating:
Summary: Not One of Their Best
Review: The first illustrated story about the scrambled states keeps your interest, but the two other illustrations are totally musical, the songs are too long, and get boring. Doesn't hold your interest. Not one of Scholastics' better videos.