THE MIDWIFE'S APPRENTICE

Jenny Sterlin's narration of this Newbery Medal-winning story of life in the Middle Ages lacks luster and substance. Sterlin's bland vocal expression, with limited inflection or nuance, adds little to the distinctions of meaning throughout the story. Alice's feelings about being cold, hungry and alone, and the musings that lead to her discovery of confidence and courage, are treated much the same as the plot. R.M. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 97]