Nurk

When Nurk, an unadventurous shrew, inadvertently receives a plea for help addressed to his warrior-like grandmother, he attempts to return the letter to its sender, a response that ultimately sends him on the adventure of his timid little life. This full-cast audio production chronicles how Nurk faces down his many fears and is able to provide help. Bill Knowlton, a tirelessly enthusiastic reader, sets up the cast's voices well. Everyone's willingness to enjoy this small story does much to enhance the listener's pleasure in it. Younger listeners will be engaged by the vocal variety demonstrated, though others may wonder at some choices, such as why a hummingbird's voice is so guttural and tough, or why the grandmother's is that of a little girl. J.C.G. (c) AudioFile 2009, Portland, Maine