Why I love Clifford, the Big Red Dog

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Jul 1, 2003

As I'm a student, the last two weeks since my previous article were filled with exams. So, this week's article consists of headlines, reviews and reader answers. Watch out for another article in less than two weeks with expanded program reviews, and hopefully some interviews.

QUICK REVIEWS:

- James Birdwell's "Clifford, the Big Red Dog" has been entertaining children for nearly four decades now in paperbacks, and just a few seasons ago made the leap to television.

Made for children 3 to 7 years old, this delighting show teaches vital lessons all kids face in growing up. Clifford 10 Big Ideas, as outlined by the parent's site for the show are:
Share - Be Responsible - Be Truthful - Be Kind - Believe in Yourself - Be a Good Friend - Have Respect - Help Others - Work Together - Play Fair
The stories on Clifford are quite well written- there doesn't seem an episode that really seems out of place. These themes, like in any edutainment show are of course recycled in different plotlines, to reiterate the message in a different way.

Overall, I hope Clifford will stay in production for many years to come. Its high standards and entertaining tales of Clifford, T-Bone, Cleo and owner Emily Elizabeth are pleasantly memorable; youngsters of this age should certainly try the show out.

NEWS FLASH!

- Most PBS stations are actually carrying new episodes of "The Big Comfy Couch". Featuring a little girl clown, Lunette (Alyson Court) and her doll, Molly, the series had a successful run in the late nineties. I am really glad that more episodes of this series are being made; the episodes running for the last few years in syndication have proved to be timeless, but this fresh new lease on life is welcomed.

- "A Pretty Good Life" is a series being developed by Warner Brother Animation with R&B superstar, Macy Gray. Inspired by Macy's childhood in Los Angeles, it weaves comedy, adventure, music and real-world issues. WB says their expecting a hit from their star-studded show, starring a young, multi-racial cast of characters.

Software watch:

At the recent E3 (Electronics Entertainment Expo) in Los Angeles, "Nick Cartoon Character" was previewed. This Scholastic product, kids can create cartoons with the stars of Spongebob Squarepants, Jimmy Neutron, Rugrats and Fairly Odd Parents. They can even e-mail their newly directed episodes to friends.

Each column, I'll present another kids TV/software tie in to you. Unfortunately, I can't review most of them, but I'll try to get outside sources to comment.

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