Olivia

Olivia

Chorion

Ever since Ian Falconer's beloved Olivia books hit the New York Times bestseller list, it's been inevitable that they would be translated into other media. Nickelodeon has finally done just that with a new CG-animated series that chronicles the adventures, both real and imagined, of the precocious 6 3/4-year-old pig.

Even if your tots aren't familiar with the Olivia books (and if they're not, you really must fix that), they're bound to get a kick out of the show. Each episode features two separate, self-contained tales in which the self-involved title character amuses herself while suffering the shenanigans of her little brother Ian, a constant thorn in her hoof.

Falconer's delightful illustrations have always been superior to his sweet but simple stories, and a lot of care has gone into making sure the show captures his unmistakable style. The result is impressive, although perhaps a little too slick: His minimalist drawings have been dressed up and his black, white and red palette has been expanded to include all the colors of the rainbow. But really, why quibble? The show features the right, old-timey look and feel, more Max & Ruby than The Backyardigans, as well as Olivia's irrepressible spirit, which is, after all, what makes her the darling of the preschool set.--Raven Snook

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