THE ARKADIANS

Lloyd Alexander, of Black Cauldron fame, is the modern-day master of the quest story. The Arkadians is a classic quest, with our poor clerk/hero, Lucian, picking up such companions as mystic healer Joy-in-the-Dance and talking donkey Fronto along the way. The story is reminiscent of Chaucer, with each new companion bringing along (and telling) a tale as the group travels. All the "told tales" sometimes have the effect of kicking the listener out of the action of Lucian's quest, but the energetic cast doesn't allow the reader's attention to wander far. You may find yourself adjusting and readjusting your volume, however, as some performers are quite loud, while others are soft- spoken, or even whispery. M.C. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 99]