AKIMBO AND THE LIONS

In Akimbo's third adventure on the African savannah, lions are attacking cattle in a nearby village. Akimbo bravely accompanies his ranger father to investigate. Smith's gravelly voice and languid pace convey the suspense of Akimbo's adventures and the beauty of the African countryside. Akimbo's friendship with the captured lion cub is carefully developed by Smith's detailed portrayal of their encounters. Smith's vocalization adeptly expresses Akimbo's delight and anxiety in his feisty animal friend, but Akimbo soon realizes that he must release the lion cub back to his home. Africa's unique essence is easy to visualize when listening to Smith's portrayal of this gentle story. W.V.S. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 06]