SIR KENDRICK AND THE CASTLE OF BEL LIONE

In the grand tradition of The Chronicles of Narnia, Chuck Black's Arrethtrae saga tells the story of valiant knights in a far-off kingdom within a thinly veiled Christian metaphor. Intended for youth, the story has a straightforward theme of good versus evil. Megalomaniac Lord Ra is luring young people into his ranks of evil knights through decadent parties. Only a band of noble knights—outnumbered but blessed by "The Prince"—can stop him. Bringing life to this recording are multiple voices, dashing sound effects, and adventuresome music. Battle scenes are exciting without being overly violent, and the story's tender moments balance out the fighting. For families looking for fantasy tales with a solid moral message, the Arrethtrae series is a good choice. F.G. © AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2009]