THE STORY OF THE OTHER WISE MAN

Henry Van Dyke's fable, clad in the verbal trappings of a scholar and devotee of fine language, moves serenely toward its moral. Young or old, no one can fail to understand and sympathize with the magus, Artaban, whose quest is fulfilled in ways he has not expected. Frustrations cross his every step, yet dignity and compassion guide him toward his goal. To narrate such a journey in tones both arch and breathless is to miss the message. Pietrofesa reads well but without conviction. He "acts," using emphasis without developing interpretation. No matter. The story, like that star sighted long ago, shines forth with promise for those who truly listen. S.B.S. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPT 97]