THE BOOK OF THE LION

This production is as close to perfection as it gets with respect to story and narration. This is a glimpse at history so vivid you feel it in your bones. Seventeen-year-old Edmund finds himself forced into a commitment to Sir Nigel, a knight on his way to the Holy Crusades to serve with Richard the Lionheart. Along the way he experiences the drama of many a colorful exotic land, as well as the danger and violence of the twelfth century. Without a flicker of romanticism this National Book Award finalist paints a realistic picture of a stark and primitive world, full of the tensions of trying to survive, as well as the frenzy of battle. The story is perfect for reluctant readers, especially boys who find it hard to get interested in history. Simon Prebble gives a stellar performance, vividly bringing to life each character and creating empathy for characters driven by motivations that are hard for us to fathom today. D.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 04]