Time of Wonder

McCloskey's timeless story of the seasons on Maine islands evokes and awakens each of the senses. From the early rain and yellow fog of spring through the sparkling blues and racing schooners of summer to the darkening, tingling suspense of a hurricane's fury--listeners experience the times of wonder. James Naughton personalizes the moments with a subtle emphasis on the "you" of the story and gives equal import to each of the events, whether it involves the people of the islands or the flora and fauna or the weather itself. As the story builds to the hurricane's crescendo, Naughton speeds up and heightens the anticipation. Sounds of the weather provide a dramatic backdrop to the narration. And, of course, the Caldecott-winning illustrations are a delight. A.R. (c) AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine

Cherished for his picture books, Blueberries for Sal and Make Way for Ducklings, McCloskey often wrote about the coast of Maine and the wonders of its shore and islands. Tracy Lord captures the wide-eyed delight of young children when they discover sea shells, flowers and wildlife. The short program could be further enjoyed with the book at hand as the narration is over too soon. R.F.W. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine