POPPY AND ERETH

The combination of an Avi adventure set in Dimwood Forest and the narration of John McDonough is perfect. In the latest adventure of mouse Poppy and her extended family, McDonough's rich and welcoming voice brings immediacy to the story, engaging the listener from the start. The animals are distraught over the death of Poppy's husband, Rye, a poet, and look to "Uncle" Ereth, the porcupine, to soothe and comfort them. McDonough handles the delicate situation with aplomb. He gentles his voice and lengthens his pauses when the animals are remembering the poet, roars with paw-stamping authority when decisions are needed, and blusters with each epithet Ereth utters—heightening the humor of the moment. This recording is a treat! A.R. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2009]