WALKING OLLIE

Anyone who has adopted a dog from a rescue shelter will sympathize with Stephen Foster's frustrations in domesticating Ollie, a mixed breed saluki/greyhound referred to as a "lurcher." Despite Foster's heroic efforts, Ollie remains neurotic at best, possessed at worst. Nicholas Bell reflects the dry British humor of the text, understating in tone what Foster minimizes in words. Bell's vocal tone remains calm and even throughout, but his precise timing provides belly laughs in a way that shouting never could. We groan with Foster at the dog's many setbacks, and cheer each baby step forward. While this book may not propel you into the local shelter, it will at least inspire admiration for those brave enough to take on such a challenge. R.L.L. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2008]