ONCE UPON A SHOE

These stories were recorded at an elementary school, so you know St. Romain is performing, not reading, these tales. Her hearty and wide-ranging repertoire (she holds back nothing to amuse) clearly appeals to young children, and their laughter and applause are also recorded here. She weaves in interesting facts about storytelling and reminds children what each person can do to keep oral traditions alive. St. Romain's call-and-response interactions leave spaces for listeners to respond, so if you aren't acting out your role in the stories, you might think the CD has blank spots, as the children's voices in reply are sometimes faint, especially in contrast to St. Romain's exuberant voice. J.C.G.
(c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 04]