THE NAME OF THIS BOOK IS SECRET

This audio begins, proceeds, and ends with an intrusive narrator who delays the story, delivers misinformation, and tries to manipulate listeners. David Pittu minimizes the annoyance factor and maximizes a story made exciting by mysteries and puzzles. Even though the narrator refuses to name the characters, we get to know the incessantly talking Max-Ernest through Pittu's speedy speech, as well as the timid heroine, Cass, who tries to quell her fears as she faces scary situations. But the showstoppers are the villains, Dr. L. and Ms. Mauvais, who seek endless youth. Pittu gives them dark, evil voices tinged with a mysterious Eastern-European accent. While the snarky first-person narrator tries to distract listeners, it's these characters who captivate. S.W. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 08]