Rabbit Ears World Tales, Volume 5

Danny Aiello gives an engaging and delightful performance of "Pinocchio," set to music by the Les Miserables Brass Band. Pinocchio magically comes to life at the hands of toymaker Gepetto, and, thanks to Aiello and the musical accompaniment, mischief and hilarity ensue. Aiello and the Brass Band are adept at keeping the pace moving and succeed in painting a colorful aural picture of the tale. Even better is John Cleese's reading of "Tom Thumb." With an orchestral score provided by Elvis Costello, the adventure of the little person with enormous courage springs to life, full of suspense and perseverance. The two classic stories are produced with enough sound effects to keep little ears glued to the action. H.L.S. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine