Treasure Island

Jim Hawkins, son of the proprietor of the Admiral Benbow Inn, is fascinated by a mysterious seaman who takes up lodging. The visitor's death leads to the discovery of a treasure map, setting Jim on the course that leads him to Long John Silver and the search for Captain Kidd's treasure. Michael Prichard reads this famous adventure story with the wistful quality of an adult looking back on a childhood adventure. The voices of pirates live up to the clichés--many of which were set by this yarn--but Prichard gives Silver a touch of humanity. Listeners who enjoyed PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN might check out this original pirate tale. J.A.S. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine

August 31, 2009
Tim Gregory captures the essence of this classic coming-of-age tale featuring villainous buccaneers, buried treasure, murder, treachery and adventure on the high seas. We follow the exploits of young Jim Hawkins along his voyage for treasure aboard the Hispaniola
to his showdown with the villain Long John Silver on Treasure Island. Gregory introduces a host of uniquely rendered characters, with Silver and his pirates matching wits and weapons with Hawkins and his comrades as they battle for control of Treasure Island and a share of Captain Flint's long lost treasure. Gregory's rendering of the iconic characters—particularly the duplicitous Silver and the marooned and raving Ben Gunn—are nuanced, true to the text and utterly enjoyable. He avoids the easy clichés of the pirate genre and instead portrays complex characters in a performance that will delight listeners of all ages.

Renowned narrator/storyteller Jim Weiss presents two productions for the younger set. Tell Me a Story! is a collection of adaptations of seven well-known favorites, such as "The Bremen Town Musicians," "Goldilocks," and "The Little Red Hen," that will appeal to listeners in preschool through second grade. Treasure Island is an adaptation of the Stevenson classic, geared more toward older school-age children. Weiss is a talented and deservedly respected narrator. His voice is versatile in reading dialogue and expressive with narration. He infuses his performances with energy, enthusiasm, and expressiveness. Such a talent makes for an enjoyable listening experience for all. M.T.F. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine