From School Library Journal
Grade 2-4-The Witch of Blackberry Bottom by Dick King-Smith, was published as Mysterious Miss Slade in the United States (Crown, 2000). The reclusive Miss Slade, with a black patch over one eye and ragged clothes, lives with her animals at Blackberry Bottom. The people of the village think she's a witch. Her solitary life changes dramatically when a family with two children, Patsy, age eight, and Jim, age six, move into a nearby cottage. The youngsters immediately love the kindly Miss Slade and her wonderful animals. Listeners learn that Miss Slade is really a baron's daughter, who lost an eye in a fireworks accident, was jilted by the only man she ever loved, lost both parents in a plane crash, and is very wealthy. After developing a friendship with her new neighbors, Miss Slade decides to "turn over a new leaf" for her 70th birthday, and to take better care of herself. The children come to her assistance when a thief tries to steal her inheritance. This simple, sweet story teaches us that people are not always as they seem. The language is well suited to being read aloud. The book is crisply and clearly read by British comic actress, June Witfield. She handles the voices well, from the cultured Miss Slade to the na?ve Jim. If young listeners can get past some of the British terms, they will enjoy this engaging story.
Jo-Ann Carhart, East Islip Public Library, NY Copyright 2001 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--Ce texte provient de la
Audio Cassette
édition.
When Tom's family moves to Africa, he has mixed emotions until he spots the regal leopard outside his house. He quickly joins his new African friends as they try to save the animal from being shot. The narrator skillfully portrays an array of accents and emotions as he takes us on Tom's journey of discovery. The suspense is gripping, and Taylor paces his voice and delivery to full effect. Both author and narrator present the cultural differences realistically and sym-pathetically. Listeners of all ages can't help but be caught up in the thrilling story. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine--
Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine
--Ce texte provient de la
Audio Cassette
édition.
