A CHRISTMAS CAROL and THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS

This isn't a blockbuster version of Dickens's familiar Christmas tale, but rather a classically narrated one, imbued with a gentle fireside feel. Derek Perkins sounds eminently comfortable with Dickens's language and turns of phrase, and, in turn, he always makes their meaning clear for listeners. His restrained characterizations add just the right amount of color, drawing listeners into the world Dickens conjures. By the end, listeners will believe that his Scrooge is a changed man. As a bonus, listeners are also treated to a delightful reading of "The Night Before Christmas" by Alison Larkin, plus her brief commentary about the two Christmas classics. J.M.D. © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2016]