TaleSpin, Volume 1
The ever-swinging Baloo fromDisney's Jungle Bookhas taken up flying and is now the proud pilot of his very own bush plane--problem is, Baloo's laid-back, "work only when you want to" attitude is definitely not conducive to running a thriving business.  Add in a young orphan bear named Kit Cloudkicker who's befriended Baloo and stolen a valuable treasure from a band of pirates led by the evil Don Karnage and a newly graduated business major Rebecca Cunningham who's recently purchased the deeds to Baloo's plane and cabin, and you've got an animated series that simply explodes with adventure and conflict.  This three-disc, animated DVD set includes the 1990 four-part television pilot and 23 additional one and two-part episodes.  The plots encompass everything from piracy and circus performing, to childrearing, oil shortages, and the unexpected importance of good spelling, but what always remains constant is Baloo's willingness to stand up and fight for his friends and what is right, even in the face of the toughest enemy.  Throughout his adventures, Baloo also encounters many old acquaintances from the jungle including the corporate maverick Shere Kahn and the ever-cool nightclub operator Louie.   (Ages 3 to 10)--Tami Horiuchi