Chicago resident Laura Doherty is the former director of the Old Town School's early-childhood Wiggleworms program. Shining Like A Star is her second children's music album, and she brings to it a fine understanding of what makes good music for younger kids. Backed by a solid group of acoustic folk players, this album contains thirteen mostly original songs, and all are delivered in the breezy folk-pop sound and sweet harmonies that made her first album such a treat.

The happy opening title track finds her sharing vocals with nationally known kids rocker Ralph Covert (of Ralph's World), while the wistful and gentle "Goodbye Song," not only closes the album but is a perfect bed time tune. Between these songs are such gems as "I'm a Tree" (shades of John Gorka's "When I Grow Up I Wanna Be A Tree"), the old timey "Quiet as A Mouse," and the sweet garden celebration of "Vegetable Party."

Other highlights include the jazzy sound making tune, "Jake the Snake," the swinging "Valentine," and the slide guitar, blue shimmy of "Popcorn." Tap dance sensation Reggio "the Hoofer" McLaughlin, adds his unique percussive sound to the highly memorable "Tap Dance." Doherty even manages to transform The Carpenters' classic "Sing (a Happy Song)" into a sing-a-long song for kids.

Great musicianship, eco-sensible packaging and intelligent illustration make this a completely satisfying album.