Starlight

Nanette Savard rises to the challenge of portraying a cast of emotional, adventurous, and ingenious characters, all of whom are cats. After many weary days of travel, the Clans have arrived in their new home, where they must establish territories and identify the many new dangers: "twolegs," "kitty pets," Sharptooth, and more. While pronouncing names like Squirrelflight, Ashfoot, Onewhisker, Brambleclaw, Leafpool, and Tawnypelt, Savard neither stumbles nor breaks her smooth pace. Her narration is crisp and clear, and she knows how amplify the drama by building tension. The relationships between the cats are complex and intriguing, and Savard's many fine voices add to the reality and credibility. S.C.A. (c) AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine

September 1, 2006
Gr 5-8 -Erin Hunter -s fourth book (HarperCollins, 2006) in the series is the most compelling one so far. The Cat Clans are struggling to establish territories in a world where dangers and resources are yet to be found. Having been forced to leave due to -two-leggeds - - destruction of their world, unexpected alliances were forged between the Clans as they journeyed to an unfamiliar land. Creating new boundaries for the Clans challenges those temporary alliances. It is of utmost importance to reconnect with the StarClan, the warrior ancestors whose guidance oversees the selection of new leaders, medicine cat secrets, and faith that they -re following the correct path. There -s a healthy dose of feline personification, complete with moral and emotional struggles urging the story along. Personal jealousies and passions seem natural in this reading by Nanette Savard. Her subtle voice changes have sufficient dramatic effect to help listeners identify which cat is speaking. For cat lovers and fans of the series, this is a fine rendition. -"Robin Levin, Fort Washakie School/Community Library, WY"

Copyright 2006 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.