20 CLASSIC FAIRY TALES

What a terrific collection for a family trip, a cozy fire, or classroom listening! Tales include the familiar, such as “Cinderella” and “Rumplestiltskin,” and the less frequently told, such as “Saint George and the Dragon” and “The Three Musketeers.” Each story is stretched or condensed to provide a twenty-minute listening experience. A host of actors presents lively retellings, animating people and animals so that the characters come to life with gusto and panache. Sound effects are interspersed meaningfully, along with orchestra music. At times, the embellishments detract from the timelessness of the original story and might confuse a listener who doesn’t know the original. Yet, overall, adults and children will treasure this collection. A.R. © AudioFile 2001, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 01]