Briar Rose

As a little girl, Rebecca Berlin found magic in listening to her grandmother, Gemma, tell the story of Briar Rose. Years later, as a young woman, Becca learned the real story. "I am Briar Rose," whispers Gemma as she lies dying. Her words launch her granddaughter on a journey of discovery to wartime Poland, Nazi death camps and Gemma's mysterious past. In keeping with such a journey, Linda Stephens's reading vibrates with imaginative characterizations and bold feeling. Like a sculptor with her chisel, Stephens shapes Yolen's story with her voice, flawlessly interprets mood and tone, and breathes personality into her characters. From old Prince Pototsky to eager, young Gemma, there is magic in the listening. P.E.F. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine