Walter the Baker

Walter finds himself threatened with banishment from the Duchy if he can't produce a new roll good enough to satisfy the Duke and Duchess. Walter does so by accidentally inventing the pretzel. With his throaty voice full of enthusiasm, McDonough puts life into these words and a spirit of fun into the story. His style and delivery add a feeling of intimacy and a personal touch. From the Duke's slightly gruff, authoritative voice to the sweet, light voice of the Duchess, McDonough makes certain important characters have the foreground. McDonough easily conveys the worry and stress Walter feels as he strives to find the roll fit for the Duchy. Even the youngest listeners will enjoy this lively retelling. P.A.J. (c) AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine

March 30, 1998
From the author of The Very Hungry Caterpillar comes the story of a baker who invents the pretzel. Carle's whimsical, frenetic collages seem fresh from the oven, even though they were first published 25 years ago. Ages 4-8.