SWALLOWS AND AMAZONS

Alex Jennings performs this beloved classic of English children's literature in splendid fashion. His shaded character portrayals and enthusiastic narration make it clear that he loves the book. Published in 1930, Swallows and Amazons is about six children who sail, camp, and find timeless adventure during a holiday in England's Lake District. It is a literate book full of magic for children and adults, which Jennings's reading amplifies. The many characters are distinct individuals--from the Australian mom to a neighboring farm wife to serious older siblings and the head-over-heels enthusiastic younger kids. Jennings's pace quickens when the sailboat battles occur and relaxes when the children collapse around the fire. Listening, we lose ourselves in the golden days. Let's hope that BBC Audiobooks plans to produce the entire series. A.C.S. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 05/ JAN 06]