THE SKIRT

Nine-year-old Miata Ramirez leaves on the school bus the folklorico skirt that belonged to her mother as a child in Mexico. She must recover it before Sunday when she's to perform with her dance troupe. Unfortunately, Galindo doesn't communicate the sympathy and humor in Soto's story of a Mexican-American community in the San Joaquin Valley. She pronounces Mexican-American names and Spanish words with a beautiful, authentic accent, but the natural dialogue that brings this simple story to life is awkwardly delivered. The Skirt deserves a more energetic and polished narration. C.R.A. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN 94]