THE LAST WEEK IN DECEMBER

Three years ago, when Bella was 8, she stole her grandfather's beautiful pouch. Now her English grandparents are visiting Australia again, and Bella is fearful that she'll be confronted with her deed. Narrator Rebecca Macauley movingly conveys Bella's fear, shame, and regret while also delivering the adults' much different perspective. Macauley successfully mingles both English and Australian accents in a manner understandable to American listeners. An excellent lesson is presented through a moving story. S.G.B. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 04]