OUCH!

What an excellent example of how an audiobook can turn a mediocre story retold from a Grimm tale into a delightful listening experience! Babbitt does a good job with the retelling, and Marcellino’s illustrations are bold and evocative, but it is Martin Jarvis’s narration that truly lifts this story out of the ordinary. His well-modulated, relaxed speech, accurate inflection, and British accent create the mood. His pitch, tone, and nuance create distinct voices for the greedy, arrogant King; sweet and innocent Marcho; the kindly and coy grandmother; and the sleazy devil himself. The use of page-turning signals rather than beeps allows the story to flow, and the musical interludes are soft enough to remain in the background while enhancing the mood, setting, and plot. Outstanding! (Due to some of the language, this might be more appropriate for upper-elementary students or family listening.) W.L.S. Winner of 2001 Audie Award for Children Ages 0-7. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 01]