BALLET SHOES

In this quirky story, Great Uncle Matthew (known as “GUM”) broke his leg and could no longer collect fossils, so he began a new hobby. As he traveled around the world, he adopted orphans. Pauline, Petrova, and Posy declared themselves sisters and took Fossil as their family name. The BBC has created a full-cast dramatization, with Rosemary Leach the star as Nana. Sound effects and music add to the pleasure. Each girl tries in her own way to help make the name Fossil important and respected since it's her very own name. The dramatization is outstanding as the girls discover Pollyanna-like lessons without ever coming across as preachy. An excellent introduction to a full-cast listening experience. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2008]