The Book of Three

A fine book deserves a fine presentation. Such is true of Lloyd Alexander's THE BOOK OF THREE, the first novel of the Prydain Chronicles. The author himself provides opening remarks to set the scene. As Taran the Assistant Pig Keeper quests after his escaped charge, the mates who join his entourage expand Taran's horizons both literally and figuratively as he comes to see his home, Caer Dathyl, his future, and himself in new light. James Langton enables the listener to enter this fantastical world. Langton's presentation of each character has a depth that brings heightened compassion. Would it be possible for cocky, naive Taran to long to return to the muck and mire of his farm or yearn for the knowledge and serenity that Gwydion and Medwyn possess? Could grumbly, prickly Gurgi show the strength of friendship? Might plucky Eilowny know more than she lets on? Langton cares deeply about each character, and so will the listener! A.R. Winner of AUDIOFILE Earphones Award (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine

A classic story of high adventure and conflict between good and evil placed in the mythical land of Prydain, The Book of Three is read grippingly and enchantingly by Chris King. Vocal switches are mostly smooth with a few minor pronunciation slips which are quickly corrected. King's voice is clear, easy to understand and memorable, giving the listener a sense of the characters as well as a pronunciation guide to those incredible Gaelic names Alexander uses. Both the characters and the story linger in the mind's eye because of the quality of narration. This is surely a reading that can be listened to again and again and will leave the listeners asking for the entire Prydain series on tape. P.S.B. Winner of AUDIOFILE Earphones Award (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine