The Hundred and One Dalmatians

January 1, 2002
Most kids know well the Disney versions of 101 Dalmatians, but few are familiar with Dodie Smith's original novel of the same name published in 1956. Now comes the audio interpretation, read with just the right amount of sophistication, exuberance and humor by British actor Martin Jarvis.

Puppy-snatcher Cruella de Vil will stop at nothing to acquire dalmatian pups for the purpose of making spotted fur coats of them. This time a litter of 15 pups belonging to an innocent couple is her target. Martin Jarvis reads the script straight in a sweet, breathy voice, without differentiating the various roles. He enthusiastically relates the kidnapping and return of the puppies, and--for the youngest dog lovers--conveys Cruella's villainous intentions without going overboard. If you don't have a VCR in your car, this well-done audiobook will entertain the kids just as well as Disney. A.G.H. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine