Sneak Peek Review of the Children' DVD Thomas & Friends: The Birthday Express

This is a sneak peek review of the children's DVD Thomas & Friends: The Birthday Express. This product is due out from Lionsgate and HiT Entertainment on May 17. I was provided a review copy of the children's DVD, but was under no obligation to recommend it . My observations are my own.

Synopsis of the Children's DVD Thomas & Friends: The Birthday Express

Four episodes make up this video, in which party-themed activities on the Island of Sodor are the focus. First, in "Percy's Parcel," the engine has a special birthday package to deliver, but he becomes more concerned with showing it off to Mavis, which leads to a potential disaster with the gift. Thomas notices that Sir Topham Hatt doesn't look or act his usual self, but he's afraid to bring it up with him, which causes lots of inconvenience setting up Hatt's birthday party in "Double Trouble." In the "Man in the Hills," Thomas hears a story about a man in the hills, and sets out to find him which interferes with setting up Mr. Percival's birthday party. The final episode in Thomas & Friends: The Birthday Express is called "The Party Surprise." Mr. Percival normally has a Christmas party at his house, but engine Freddie wants Colin, a crane at the harbor, to experience the party, so he goes behind Mr. Percival's back to set up the party there, which causes much confusion.

The bonus features include a Roary the Racing Car episode called "Roary Takes Off," and a game called "The Birthday Express." A wooden whistle is also included with this video. In between the episodes, Mr. Perkins, Thomas' driver, has to figure out what he can contribute to a talent show through comedic trial and error.

More about the Children's DVD Thomas & Friends: The Birthday Express

This animated series is great at teaching children how to behave and act properly, and this video shows that following directions, not being afraid to bring up a concern, and getting permission before undertaking something are important; and thus, I recommend this children's DVD.

The combined running time for the DVD is about 46 minutes and can be heard in English, French, or Spanish. The Suggested Retail Price is $16.98. You can purchase this product via retail outlets, including Amazon.com, beginning May 17. For more information about Thomas & Friends, go to the official website