TAKING CHARGE

Kate Forbes tells the amusing story of Amanda, who eagerly volunteers to look after her family when Mama is away. Amanda isn't prepared for taking on a household, especially when Baby Nathan gets into ever increasing amounts of mischief. Forbes is convincing as Amanda. She portrays her with a light Southern accent and the cadences of a young girl. Amanda tells her story with an increasing amount of frustration over Nathan's escapes, combined with a younger sister's scorn over her elder brothers' abilities in the kitchen. Children will root for Amanda's determination to win over the day and earn a place in Mama's kitchen. E.J.F. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 02]