The Black Arrow

THE BLACK ARROW is possibly the least well known of Robert Louis Stevenson's adventure novels. Set in fifteenth-century England during the War of the Roses, it follows 17-year-old Richard Shelton as he seeks to avenge his father's murder and rescue his ladylove. These days, sixth-graders might have difficulty comprehending Stevenson's period prose without assistance. Narrator Ron Keith is more than up to the task. As a homicidal priest, an assortment of barbarous pirates, and Richard's own devious legal guardian, Keith makes every moment sizzle. His excellent accents, stylish characterizations, and vocal panache keep the listener spellbound. As young Richard discovers betrayal, friendship, and love, Keith's performance offers an entertaining way for a new audience to understand and enjoy this old gem. S.J.H. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine