CHIEF JOSEPH Guardian of the People

This is a detailed, though somewhat hagiographic, biography of the famous Nez Perce chief. Besides facts about Chief Joseph's life we are given an introduction to the tribe's culture, which adds to this work. While adult audiences will enjoy this, it is more appropriate for a young adult audience. Jerry Sciarrio gives an acceptable, though not outstanding, performance. He has a deliberate and clear delivery, and is best with narrative sections. His attempts at vocal characterization are the weakness in the production. While it's difficult to effect Indian and White accents, his efforts all too often sound like caricatures, a shortcoming that takes away from the overall production. M.T.F. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 06]