DOCTOR ILLUMINATUS

When Pip and Tim and their parents move into an ancient manor house in the English countryside, the boys discover Sebastian, a boy who is the 600-year-old son of an Elizabethan alchemist. Together, the three fight evil in the form of a shape-shifting magician. This entrancing adventure is made even better by Steven Crossley's expert narration. His Pip is clearly a girl, Tim a boy, and both of them children without sounding squeaky. Beautifully, Sebastian manages to sound like a child who is wise beyond his years. And the adults are studies in class and culture. The narration between dialogue is smooth and well paced, with the right amount of speed during dramatic events and pauses just before dramatic moments. This is perfect family listening, designed to charm anyone over the age of 7. A.C.S. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 05/ JAN 06]