TWO CRAFTY CRIMINALS! And How They were Captured by the Daring Detectives of the New Cut Gang

Bruce Mann takes listeners on a pair of madcap adventures as a motley band of kid detectives sets out to solve a counterfeit coin caper and a stolen silver escapade. Mann's matter-of-fact portrayal of the group's fearless leaders, Thunderbolt and Benny, combined with his spot-on British accent, makes their outrageous antics seem both credible and amusing. Although pauses last a bit too long at the end of some sentences, overall the pacing is appropriate. While it's nearly impossible to listen to Mann's entire performance without a smile on your face, his gruff yet somehow gentle portrayal of Orlando, the professional strongman, is particularly enjoyable. This joyous romp by the celebrated author of THE GOLDEN COMPASS is an excellent choice for young listeners. Case closed. M.D. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: SEPTEMBER 2012]