THE PENDERWICKS ON GARDAM STREET

This is Birdsall's second book about four close-knit sisters. After their mother's death, they receive a letter from her in which she requests that their reticent, Latin-quoting father should bring another woman into all their lives. To that end, she says, he needs to begin dating again. But he's unwilling, so the girls come up with schemes to thwart him. Crucial to this story are the unique portrayals of the sisters. Each is fully realized by Susan Denaker, who narrates in a voice that merges old-fashioned storytelling and a contemporary story. Dialogue gives the opportunity to depict each girl's individuality. Rosalind, the eldest, is the worrier; Jane, the writer, is overdramatic; Skye, the tomboy, is rough and ready; and preschool-aged Batty has a high voice that fits her youth and eccentricity. S.W. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2008]