THE CHAMELEON WORE CHARTREUSE & THE MYSTERY OF MR. NICE

In a comical hard-boiled detective’s voice, Jon Cryer flawlessly personifies Chet Gecko, private eye. These two fourth-grade gecko adventures are entertaining for both adults and children. Cryer delivers punch lines and double entendres with perfect timing. Literary references add to the humor of the story. From the sneering teacher, Mr. Ratnose, to the mean principal, Mr. Zero, Cryer’s depictions are realistic, even though lizards, rats, horny toads, and chameleons are the lively characters. Gecko’s partner, Natalie Attired, a mockingbird, is especially well done in a “mocking” tone. Cryer captures the self-deprecating humor of Chet Gecko and carries off this amusing tale without a hitch. D.L.M. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/ SEP 01]