ONCE UPON A BEDTIME STORY

Jane Yolen selects 11 traditional folktales from around the world and retells them for children and families. This is a basic collection, including "The Three Little Pigs," a wonderful version of "Stone Soup," "The Shoemaker and the Elves," and "The Three Billy Goats Gruff," among others. Yolen's narration is just right for bedtime stories; her voice is calm, steady, and soothing, giving younger listeners the chance to wind down for bed, while engaging their attention and providing the familiarity and repetition that they enjoy. Older children will hear the differences in these versions and will appreciate some of the added humor. And the sound effects add just the right touch. Musical introductions to each story evoke the upcoming place or culture, and sound effects--drums, wind blowing, marching feet--enhance the story. W.L.S. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 01]