CROWNED Magical Folk and Fairy Tales from the Diaspora

Narrators Dion Graham and Mychal-Bella Bowman's grand and lively performances will have young listeners eager to hear every story in this vibrant collection of African- and African-American-inspired tales. Graham creates imaginative and outsized voices for the stories he leads. He excels at portraying heroic and mischievous animals like a greedy baboon and a trickster spider. Bowman's young voice adds depth and authenticity to the child protagonists; her narration is warm and introspective as she takes on more heartfelt tales like that of a misfit mermaid or a brave girl with magical locks. Each story is accompanied by repeating background music that reflects its tone. The music adds an extra layer of immersion and never overpowers Graham and Bowman's stellar performances. J.E.C. © AudioFile 2024, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 2024]