UNDER DRAKE’S FLAG

In this old-fashioned tale of incredible escapades, a lad accompanies Sir Frances Drake on several amazing voyages. One of G.A. Henty's classic historical novels for children, this story also provides adults a glimpse of the exciting but ruthless life on the high seas and unexplored lands of the sixteenth century. Although Fred Williams's manner might be a good match for the stilted, formal style of this nineteenth-century work, it's not pleasant for the listener. He employs the same stiff-upper-lip tone throughout narrative, dialogue, and journal writings. A few attempts at vocal characterization are oddly chosen and inconsistent.The flawed production overshadows the charm and exhilaration of this historical adventure. N.M.C. © AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 02]