James, an enslaved man who took the surname Lafayette, thanks to his wartime benefactor, served as a double agent for Washington's army during the American Revolution and then was returned to slavery. Narrator Rodney Gardiner, in a confident, deep voice, delivers Anne Rockwell's spare text with respect and authenticity. Brief gaps correspond with page turns, inviting listeners to examine the illustrated book. Background sound effects--countryside songbirds, tramping feet in army encampments--are unobtrusive but sometimes seem superfluous. The most confusing element of the production is the placement of the author's note. The background information on James is important and interesting--but on the recording is situated after the closing credits, which to most listeners signify the end of the audiobook. C.M.A. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2018]
Trade Ed. Dreamscape 2017
CD ISBN 9781520066172 $14.99 One CDs
DD ISBN $6.99
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