SEBASTIAN DARKE Prince of Fools

Maxwell Caulfield narrates this whimsical tale with imagination and vigor. Rookie jester Sebastian Darke has inherited his late father's vocation but, unfortunately, not his comedic skills. Caulfield sprinkles the teenager's lack of talent with plenty of optimism and youthful resolve. Sebastian's cynical sidekick, a talking Buffalope, is cleverly rendered by Caulfield with the drudgery of Eeyore and the wisdom of Yoda. When the pair embark upon a journey to seek employment at the court of a distant king, they encounter a deceptively miniature fighter with remarkable ferocity. All along, Caulfield adds to the entertaining saga with rich characterizations. The result is a satisfying tale of treachery and the pursuit of justice, with sarcastic humor and a surprise ending. N.M.C. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/NOV 08]