ODDER THAN EVER

Author Bruce Coville narrates several of the nine stories in this varied collection. Others are delivered by featured narrators and/or members of the Full Cast Family. Two light horror stories are particularly good. "The Japanese Mirror" crackles with tension. Listeners hear narrator Jesse Navagh's portrayal of annoyance, rage, and terror as the protagonist's life becomes entwined with a bewitched mirror. "The Golden Sail" is a lushly atmospheric folktale narrated by Coville. While young listeners may relate to "Am I Blue," a humorous coming-of-age ghost story about a boy questioning his sexuality, they should be aware that this older story contains some offensive language and stereotyped characterizations. "Biscuits of Glory" is a standout in which Coville and the Full Cast Family are the voices of a delightful singing ghost and the boy whose kitchen she haunts. L.T. © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2021]