THE PENDERWICKS

Susan Denaker evokes memories of childhood summers of freedom, adventure, and new friends. The four Penderwick sisters, with their father and dog Hound, are spending a three-week vacation at a cottage on the Arundel estate. Beautiful gardens for romping, pet rabbits, a lonely boy to befriend, and attic treasures to uncover all weave into a story of a vacation made for memories. Denaker uses her voice well to communicate the unique personalities of each character. You hear the change in Jeffrey Tifton, the timid, unhappy young son of the estate. Rosalind's maturity and practicality, Skye's feistiness, Jane's dreaminess, and little Batty's compassion are all painted with a perfect meld of language and voice. N.E.M. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 06]