THE BAGTHORPES Absolute Zero

Clive Mantle's reading of Cresswell's quirky follow-up to ORDINARY JACK is hilarious. When a very dignified Uncle Parker wins a tropical cruise in a slogan-writing competition, the entire Bagthorpe family erupts into competition mode, entering and winning everything from a tool kit to hairdryers to fame and cold, hard cash. Mantle clearly relishes interpreting the idiosyncrasies of each character, delivering a suitably distinct voice for each. Cranky and obstinate Mr. Bagthorpe is just that, and Grandma sounds as stubborn and batty as she should. Mantle's tone and pacing match the eccentricity and chaos of the family, and Mantle is a perfect match for the humor and energy in Cresswell's writing. H.L.S. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 08]