LITTLE WOMEN

This dramatization is chock full of interesting sound effects. Hear the hymns as the sisters sing around Beth's piano, the crackle of Jo's manuscript as Amy sends it up in flames, the crack of the ice as Amy falls through. Many listeners will also enjoy the production's complete cast of voices for these familiar characters. To some ears, though, the drama may seem a bit overdone. The laughter's a little forced, the girls seem to gasp and exclaim a lot, and Jo's voice requires an adjustment--it's deep and boyish all right, but she sounds curiously old for the part. Still, newcomers and fans alike will adjust to these relatively minor details and enjoy a classic brought enthusiastically to life. J.C.G. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 07]