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Starfish
A Bedtime Story

by J. Beres / K. Block
Illustrated by Sean Kelley



      Starfish: A Bedtime Story is a most unusual children's book. This little board book is the tale of a lonely little boy who finds an equally lonely starfish on a beach and together they find companionship and their way home. The story was written by Jett Beres, the bass player for the multi-platinum, folk rock band, Sister Hazel, a group that has been touring for 14 years. It was Beres' continually being away from home that inspired him to write the song "Starfish," which soon became a fan favorite. As the father of two, Beres decided to share "Starfish" with children. Working with SeaTails, a publisher in Florida, and their very talented illustrator Sean Kelley, Beres created a package: a colorful book and a CD.

Though the song itself is a very fun, upbeat tune, Beres chose not be another Raffi. He decided, instead, to have just the melody reproduced in three cuts suitable for bedtime listening. All three tracks also have soothing ocean sounds mixed in with the music. One cut is more of an instrumental lullaby. Another is done with a symphony, and the last is a rendering with a classical guitar.

Starfish: A Bedtime Story is a beautiful blending of story and music. A portion of proceeds from the sale of this book go to Lyrics For Life, a non-profit organization supporting the fight against pediatric cancer, founded by another Sister Hazel member, Ken Block, whose younger brother died of cancer. I'm sure many Sister Hazel fans will be grabbing copies of this book and CD for their children and grandchildren. But many other parents will also make Starfish: A Bedtime Story a very delightful part of their child's bedtime routine. Well done, Jett Beres!

The Book

SeaTails
September 23, 2008
Hardcover with CD
097894903X / 978-0978949037
Children's picture book / Ages 6 and younger
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Excerpt
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The Reviewer

Janie Franz
Reviewed 2008
NOTE: Reviewer Janie Franz is the author of Freelance Writing: It’s a Business, Stupid!and co-author of The Ultimate Wedding Reception Book and The Ultimate Wedding Ceremony Book.
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