THE WIZARD OF OZ

THE WIZARD OF OZ is a bleaker and more frightening book than the movie that was made from it. So children (and their adults) who expect Dorothy to burst into cheery song should be prepared. That said, it is full of adventure. Adams Morgan enunciates his narration overprecisely, sounding somewhat affected until one becomes used to it. Otherwise, his characterizations are delightful--the Tin Woodman even sounds hollow--and his pacing careful enough to let young listeners keep up with the action. A.C.S. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 02]