THE SECRET GARDEN

THE SECRET GARDEN is a wonderfully symbolic story about children finding love and happiness through their mutual delight in the magic of nature and in each other. Much of the novel is dialogue spoken in the broad dialect of Yorkshire. American interpreter Klein is at a distinct disadvantage. Actually, this regional language is so dynamic that it becomes itself a force for character change in the novel. As the two upper-class children open up, their stiff, upper-class speech deliberately changes to that of the relaxed musical country Yorkshire. Klein tries to overcome her native speech patterns, but the result is unconvincing. Nonetheless, Klein's voice is pitched well for children and has a youthful feel. However, this recording is undercut by a recording system that muffles at normal volumes and distorts at higher ones. P.W. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 92]