RED: THE TRUE STORY OF RED RIDING HOOD

Shurtliff's fairy-tale retellings (JACK, RUMP) give narrators a fine challenge, and Tara Sands fully takes this one on. When Red's grandmother becomes gravely ill, she heads out on a quest to find the strongest magic, eternal life, to save her. While Red's personality is determined and sassy, Goldie, her unexpected and initially unwelcome companion, overflows with an infectious innocence as she babbles every thought that pops into her head. Sands executes this contrast perfectly. The various other storybook characters are also well done, giving the production both depth and whimsy. The disdainful tone of their dwarf guide, the wistful howls of Red's wolf friend, and the huntsman's raspy voice--so edged in malice that your hair will curl--will win listeners of all ages. M.F.T. © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2016]