ELLISON THE ELEPHANT

Ellison's sad to discover that his trumpeted call differs from those of the other little elephants. When eventually he learns to value his own special voice (both jazzy and musical), others do too. Eric Drachman, himself an actor, dramatizes the story and enlists the acting help of much of his family, including his young nephew, Benjamin Drachman, who plays the sweet-voiced Ellison. The author has also enlisted the talents of a jazz composer and Bryon "BTrain" Holley to vocalize Ellison's tunes. The result is engaging, with one jarring note: Ellison's imaginary weasel friend has a New York-accented voice that's a bit of a harsh surprise. J.C.G. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 05]