MAGIC STEPS

Tamora Pierce has written another fantastic tale that takes place in the magical world of Emelan. Courtney Seymour’s ethereal voice is perfect for Sandry, a 14-year-old mage whose magical power involves sewing and weaving. Andrew Hughes gives a boyish, mischievous portrayal of 12-year-old Pasco, a reluctant dancing mage who is Sandry’s new student. Nearly every character’s voice is perfect as Sandry and Pasco deal with murderers and dangerous “unmagic” to save Emelan. Pierce’s magic as an author doesn’t extend to her vocal style as a narrator. Her slow, over-enunciated reading is so detached that it’s easy to let the mind wander. But the rest of the full cast enchants, bringing out the excitement of the story. M.M.G. © AudioFile 2011, Portland, Maine [Published: NOVEMBER 2011]