Sound Off

Elizabeth Levin is a professor of psychology at Laurentian University.

Dog detectives Lu and Clancy are at it again in this fun,
activity/picture book. The two have been assigned the responsibility of
babysitting Lu’s sister, Sophie, and her friend, Fanny. To stave off
boredom, Clancy suggests that they all hike to Mystic Lake. After the
long journey, they enjoy a picnic, then go swimming in the lake—until
a thunderstorm begins. While changing from their bathing suits, there is
a loud scream and Sophie disappears. Lu and Clancy immediately spring
into action. By the time the storm passes, Sophie is found. Because it
is late, the foursome decide to spend the night in a nearby cave. While
there, they create a junkyard band that includes a bug buzzer, a tin
drum, and a kazoo. The next morning they make so much noise playing
their instruments that rescuers find them right away.

The action-packed story, which is divided into 10 easy easy-to-read
chapters, is supported by colorful, comical illustrations. Several
sound-based activities are suggested throughout the text, including
making a flute out of straws. (“Different lengths of straws make
different sounds. Why? Because there are different amounts of air inside
each straw. The more air there is, the slower it vibrates, and the
deeper the sound.”) Easy-to-follow step-by-step directions accompany
each activity. Children are sure to enjoy making the instruments; they
require only common household materials. Highly recommended.