DREAM MASTER: GLADIATOR

When Cy has a school project on volcanoes, he decides to have his Dream Master help with his research. Soon they're speeding through space and time to Roman Pompeii when Vesuvius erupted. Clifford Norgate is splendid, particularly, as the Dream Master; listeners cringe right along with Cy when he is displeased. There are many mini-lessons (on history, science, grammar) as the young audience is caught up in the tale. Finally, the concepts of compassion and friendship are well handled as Cy returns to present-day England, and the story is brought to a fantastic conclusion. S.G.B. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 04]