CLASS CLOWN

Reader Barbara Caruso is perfect as she relates the antics of Nora and her little brother, Teddy, and third-grader Lucas Cott, known as the "class clown." Caruso's warmth and energy, clarity and moderate pace work together to capture the listener. Inflection and expression are key to this excellent performance; tone, more often than a variety of accents, distinguishes the characters. In the second book, (BUSYBODY NORA) Caruso succeeds in getting to the heart of a smart, decent kid who needs guidance, limits and reassurance as he tries to change his image and follow the rules. Listeners will relate to Nora's "misadventures" and will love hearing Caruso's crisp voice tell the tales. J.H.B. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 97]