SOUPY SATURDAYS WITH THE PAIN AND THE GREAT ONE

Squabbling siblings demand a dual reading, and they get outstanding portrayals by Fred Berman and Kathleen McInerney. Berman is first-grader Jacob, who is called "The Pain" by his older sister, Abigail. Kathleen McInerney portrays Abigail, whom Jacob calls "The Great One" because "she thinks she's so great!" Berman's depiction of Jacob is so exuberant that he's a bit annoying. McInerney has a self-assured tone that exemplifies Abigail's bossiness as an older sister. A series of vignettes typical of childhood ensues. "The Great One" hides the fact that she can't ride a bicycle. "The Pain" eavesdrops outside his sister's door. Discerning listeners will hear the tenderness beneath their rivalry. S.W. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 07/ JAN 08]