Eulalia!

April 1, 2008
Gr 5-8-This addition (Philomel, 2007) to Brian Jacques's "Redwall" series features the usual diversity of brave forest animalsthe boxing hare Maudie, the badger Gorath, and the hedgehog Orkwilfighting villainous vermin (the golden fox Viska Longtooth and his cohorts and the Brownrats led by Gruntan Kurdly). Maudie and Orkwil help Lord Asheye fulfill the prophecy that he will be replaced by a badger and redeem their own standing among the forest animals. As with most titles in the series, the plot is predictable but satisfying and much of the enjoyment is in the diverse characterization. Jacques narrates, and a cast of actors provide the animal voices. The recording is a mixed bag. The sound levels are inconsistent between segments and vary depending upon the narrators. The actors' strong regional British dialects are often very difficult to decipher. On the other hand, the full cast brings the characters to life and will be enjoyed by listeners. Jacques reads well, but has a somewhat slurred, slushy voice and a heavy north of England accent, creating a challenge for listeners. Musical bits are enjoyable but puzzlingsometimes featuring instruments when none have been mentioned, while in other instances the instruments named are not heard. Musical introductions to each chapter are appropriate but don't fade quickly enough. Redwall fans will be pleased with this audiobook, but it won't have much appeal to casual listeners.Louise L. Sherman, formerly Anna C. Scott School, Leonia, NJ

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