WHY EPOSSUMONDAS HAS NO HAIR ON HIS TAIL

Coleen Salley’s Epossumondas stories are like a Texas version of the Uncle Remus tales, full of charming, idiosyncratic animal characters, anchored by Epossumondas and his human mama. Add Cynthia Darlow’s arresting narration, and it’s storytelling at its best. From snarling, angry bear, to squeaky hare, to nasally, happy-go-lucky possum, to the sweet southern narrator, Darlow’s range of characterizations is amazing—maintaining those voices while singing is a real feat. As she draws out words for emphasis, and quickens and slows the pace to enhance the natural rhythms and action of the story, she creates a listening delight. Although listening while enjoying the charming illustrations is even more fun, Darlow brings the characters so vividly to life that the print book isn’t necessary. W.L.S. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 07]