The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar

Starred review from January 1, 2014

Gr 4-8-Dahl story's are written to be enjoyed, to be provocative, to bypass adults and speak directly to children's psyches, and they certainly are birthed from a wellspring of imagination that is entirely unique in the world of children's literature. But few among his legions of fans will have read this collection of short stories originally published in 1977. These are complex, compelling, and complicated stories for more mature listeners. Mature not in an age-related sense, but in literary way; Dahl rewards patient and attuned listeners with stories that illuminate the meanness of children, the tenderness of a mother, or the greed of a character like Henry Sugar. The narration in this audio recording is spot on and superb. Andrew Scott's British lilt provides an intimate listening experience, as if we are all huddled together around a flashlight, long past our bedtimes, hanging on every word.-Meg B. Allison, Moretown School, Moretown, VT

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