Kid Picks with Philip Potempa for Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2011

Here's our weekly showcase of the latest and greatest new selections in media for youth.

From books and games to educational toys and DVDs, there's never a dull moment for active and eager young minds.

This week, spiders, snakes and lizards are among the creatures getting page-by-page treatment while two new DVDs put everyone's favorite on-the-go pigeon in the spotlight, as well as a special collection of favorite Halloween stories brought to life on screen.

Books

Kingfisher, $12.99, Ages 6 to 10

"Animal Planet's Weird and Wonderful: Attack and Defense" by Kathy Riley

There are 64 pages dedicated to colorful fangs, claws, flickering tongues and scary scales from the animal kingdom, all explained as to how these qualities are nature's way of protecting animals of all kinds. From lizards, bats, big cats and snakes to insects, owls and the octopus, everyday survival depends on image and defense. It's available now in stores or at kingfisherbooks.com.

DVDs

Scholastic, $14.95, Ages 2 to 8

"The Pigeon Finds a Hot Dog" by Storybook Treasures

Described as a "read-along DVD," best-selling author Mo Willems' fun character Pigeon is back with three stories brought-to-life on this 64-minute DVD "The Mo Willems Cartoon Collection Vol. 2." Also featuring his friend The Duckling, there's still the continuing struggle over Pigeon's passion for hot dogs. Also included is the story of "Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed," starring the voice of Cher. It's in stores or available at scholastic.com starting Oct. 25.

Scholastic, $14.95, Ages 4 to 9

"Teeny-Tiny and the Witch-Woman" by Storybook Treasures

There are five fun and suspense-filled episodes on this 56-minute DVD, all supporting lessons in self-esteem, reading skills and creativity. The perfect Halloween treat, the title story is all about a boy who outsmarts a witch before she cooks him and his brother up for dinner. Other stories include "What's Under My Bed?," "The Boy with Two Shadows" and "King of the Cats." It's in stores or available at scholastic.com starting Oct. 25.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. He can be reached at philip.potempa@nwi.com or (219) 852-4327.