BEAUTY The Retelling of Beauty & the Beast

Charlotte Parry’s narration brings out the charm of this older children's rendition of this timeless fairy tale. Parry lends a dainty yet spirited voice to the young protagonist who, although plain, is nicknamed Beauty. Parry’s down-to-earth narration captures Beauty’s innocence as well as her determination to take her father’s place as the beast’s prisoner. By doing so, Beauty will also live up to her given name, Honor. Through pacing and inflections Parry highlights Beauty’s wide-eyed, and sometimes fearful, astonishment at the luxuries and magic of the castle. Slight tweaks to Parry’s English accent and deeper tones help differentiate the men’s voices, and she offers a hint of gentlemanly eloquence to the Beast’s gruff demeanor. M.F. © AudioFile 2013, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2013]