COOL ZONE WITH THE PAIN AND THE GREAT ONE

Whether they’re wrestling with bullies, a loose tooth, name changes, a “breakfast café,” or pets—stuffed or genuine—Judy Blume has a game plan for her young characters, and Kathleen McInerney has the perfect pitch. The arrogance of third-grader Abigail (aka “The Great One”) and the mischievousness of her brother, first-grader Jake (aka "The Pain"), are terrifically expressed by McInerney. Occasional adult voices softly intervene, but the stories are carried by sibling teamwork and rivalry. Playground and classroom encounters are all gleefully depicted in these seven episodes. A cameo appearance by Blume as the voice of Fluzzy the cat will also delight young, and adult, listeners. Perfect fare for sharing in the car or classroom. D.P.D. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2008]