The soundtrack to a television special originating from the pen of author Maurice Sendak, Really Rosie is that rare children’s album with the wit and intelligence to capture the imaginations of adult listeners as well. Sendak’s sharp, clever lyrics tell the story of young Brooklynite Rosie and a cast of vividly etched supporting characters including the apathetic Pierre and a boy named Chicken Soup; Carole King’s melodies serve the material remarkably well, transforming even the most deliberately silly songs into catchy, piano-driven pop confections. In fact, it’s in many ways her most fully realized record since Tapestry, with a sparkling charm and heartfelt sincerity that interim releases lacked. – Jason Ankeny