THE CIRCUS OF STOLEN DREAMS

Jesse Vilinsky's narration perfectly fits the manic mood of this mild horror story in which children surrender memories or dreams in exchange for a ticket to an otherworldly circus. Vilinsky's tone is melancholy as we meet Andrea, who is still mourning the mysterious disappearance of her younger brother three years ago. Soon, the narration becomes exciting and friendly as a perky ringmaster coaxes Andrea into the gated circus grounds. Once there, Andrea meets Penny, a girl as saccharine as the array of sweets at the circus. Vilinsky's portrayal of Penny is perfectly overdone--just enough to cast a creepy atmosphere within the otherwise seemingly joyful circus. Later, she hypnotically reads the spell-weaving words of the Sandman, whose intentions may not be what they seem. L.T. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2020]