THE FIREKEEPER'S SON

"We live in an important village," Sang-hee's father tells him, and we have an important job: Each night the firekeeper must carry a brass pot filled with coals to the top of the mountain, lighting a special bonfire that signals to others along the Korean mountain chain that all is well in the land. When Sang-hee's father hurts his ankle, Sang-hee must take over the job for his father. Norm Lee narrates this Korean folk tale; Lee is a steady and even reader who's careful and emotionally circumspect--he conveys much through simple changes in tone and pace. His reading nicely captures Sang-hee's temptation (if the boy fails to light the fire, the king's soldiers will come to see what's wrong, which would be exciting), as well as the power of responsibility and tradition that ultimately prompts Sang-hee to become a trustworthy firekeeper. J.C.G. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 05]