There’s a new storyteller in town, and her name is Mrs. P.
She’s got her own website, a fabulous library, and she wears Fluevogs. She leads a fantastic, interesting life. What more could you ask for in a narrator other than a slightly lilting brogue? Which she’s got!
This brand new site is dedicated to the dramatic telling of classic children’s literature, from Peter Rabbit to The Emperor’s New Clothes. It has some cool interactive features and games, but those are simply the appetizers leading up to the main course. It was founded on the idea that adults nowadays are very busy, and may not have the time to read to their kids, which we all know to be an extremely important thing.
Mrs. P is played by Kathy Kinney, best known for her portrayal of Mimi on the Drew Carey Show. She and her co-founders consider the site to be a true a labor of love. It is completely underwritten, so there are no annoying ad banners or pop-ups to disturb the kiddies, which I think is great.
I have to give some serious props to them. There is no way that I can criticize a site whose sole purpose is to encourage kids to read and use their imaginations. I wish them the best of luck, and am pleased that they care about children and literacy.
Yet I have to admit that another part of me is pissed. Angry that a website had to be developed to do something that every single parent should be doing, and doing happily. It really bursts Glinda’s bubbles, if you know what I mean. Some of the best times with your child are spent snuggling, reading together and talking about stories. Kids love stories. Watch their faces as someone is reading to them, and you can almost see those little cogs and wheels turning inside their heads. It is a thing of beauty to behold.
But if you as a parent cannot be bothered or do not have the time to read to your own children, then you should seriously think about re-prioritizing your life. And if you don’t, be prepared to face the wrath of Glinda!