THE PEPINS AND THEIR PROBLEMS

The Pepin family does, indeed, find itself in an endless stream of preposterous predicaments. How can a responsible family provide appropriate hospitality when its cow suddenly dispenses lemonade instead of milk? What is the appropriate phrase with which to inform a very fine neighbor that he's fallen in love with a barber pole? The Pepin family's ridiculous vignettes will be enjoyed by elementary-age listeners while the book's impressive vocabulary will be appreciated by teachers and parents. Julie Halston's reading of this odd story evokes the image of a librarian reading to young children. Perhaps the story could have been more lively if it had been narrated by someone with a knack for accents and goofy voices. N.M.C. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE/JULY 05]