PHILOMENA WONDERPEN IS A SCHOOL CAMP STAR

Philomena has a very special pen. She can draw an image with her wonder pen and then say the words, "I wish," and the item will appear. Unfortunately, Philomena's desire to be the school camp star has her using her magic for the wrong reasons at the wrong times, and things are not going well. Melissa Chambers's quick pacing captures Philomena's impatience and excitement. Chambers's intonation is good, and her enunciation is clear and precise. Yet her portrayals of several characters are somewhat stereotypical, and some of the students sound older than their intended ages. Also, exaggerated sound effects detract from the story and are inconsistently employed. J.K.R. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2008]