Family Storytelling CD from A Telling Experience A Parents’ Choice Notable Recording Popular storyteller, David Novak, has assembled a lighthearted collection of stories in his uniquely quixotic manner. More Rhyme Than Reason is a collection of stories aptly named in more ways than one. First, there are more rhyming stories than prose, but also there is a whimsical quality throughout that gives this listening time an air of fun and frivolity. An appropriate musical bridge using high-quality production samples separates each story. The opening rhyme, Boat, forms the inspiration for the cover art by Janetmarie Colby depicting an eclectic family of characters at sea on an adventure. That’s the spirit of this recording as well. Here you will find an eclectic assortment of stories for the entire family: an out-of-work cowboy finds a new life wrangling kids on a playground; a little boy made of yellow gel-o wins the day; and a little-leaguer shoots for the stars. Novak’s comedy has heart too, which is evidenced in the gentle way he shares his first-person lament, Wet The Bed Again, and in the way he shows how foolishness gets us in and out of trouble with Scatter Brain. Part of the fun of this recording is provided by the laughter and presence of Novak’s friends from The Gillispie School first grade class. The liveliness of the studio audience draws the listener into the storytelling circle. In Little Yellow Fellow, Novak says “one night there were enough dreams and wishes for magic to happen.” Likewise, More Rhyme Than Reason, has enough dreams and wishes for a magic experience. David Novak is recipient of the Circle of Excellence award from the National Storytelling Network. Running time is 50 minutes for ten stories, ranging in length from 40 seconds to 14 minutes. Rated A: for All Ages.