GIANTS AND THE JONESES

As they find themselves placed into the giant Jambeelia's collecting bag, along with a sheep and a lawn mower, young Stephen, Colette, and baby Poppy Jones are not so sure that giants and humans can ever be friends. Patricia Conolly enunciates well and emphasizes the words in the giant's language so that his unique vocabulary comes easily into the listener's understanding. Her use of hesitation and weighty silence heightens the suspense at each chapter's end. She also spices each character with a distinct personality--Stephen is superior, Colette is critical, Poppy is endearing, and Jambeelia is curious. As the story unfolds, listeners will be encouraged to think about stereotyping and compassion. A.R. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 06]