SOCKS

Socks, the once darling kitten of newlyweds Mr. and Mrs. Bricker, has been displaced by an unnerving rival: newborn Charles William. Neil Patrick Harris (whose voice may be familiar from his starring role in "Doogie Howser, M.D.") skillfully enlists our sympathy for Socks, whose fortunes steadily worsen as Mrs. Bricker's lap and attention span shrink. With boyish humor, Harris invites listeners to see life from Socks's vantage point. Younger listeners (who may themselves feel misunderstood by the big people in their lives, especially after the arrival of a new sibling) will especially appreciate this perspective. Parents listening along will enjoy Cleary's sharp and humorous insights into family life. J.C.G. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 02/ JAN 03]