Though sometimes tedious and moralistic, Crusoe has become an emblem of human survival in a lonely and hostile world. In this recording British reader Tom Casaletto preserves Defoe's tone and point of view with perfect fidelity. There isn't much dialogue until the end of the book when Friday appears, but that is fully and richly voiced. If, like me, you haven't visited Crusoe's island since your youth, this excellent recording is the perfect opportunity for a return trip.
Pub Date: 1995
Duration: 11 hrs
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
An ensemble of narrators brings the bustle of a Renaissance fair, the vagaries of middle school, and the tribulations of a homeschooling family vividly to life. For 11-year-old Imogene Vega, the start of sixth grade and the opening of the Renaissance fair where her family works converge. Imogene is anxious about heading into a public school setting and eager to learn about the role of an English squire. The narrating team keeps listeners on their toes. Switching between the fair and school takes concentration on the part of the listener. Memorable aspects of this production include Imogene's reticence as well as her warmth for her parents; the cattiness of her classmates; and the humor inherent in contrasting Renaissance diction with contemporary language.
(Graphic fiction. 10-13)Pub Date: 2018
Duration: 2 hrs, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781501996276
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
[Editor's Note: The following is a combined review with BUNNICULA STRIKES AGAIN.]--When the Monroe family brings a bunny home one night, they have no idea what the effect will be. But when vegetables turn up drained of their juices and the bunny is observed to sleep all day and prowl outside his cage at night, Chester the cat becomes suspicious. How he attempts to prove his suspicions are correct makes for uproariously funny stories. In BUNNICULA, we meet the Monroe family and their pets for the first time. In BUNNICULA STRIKES AGAIN!, Bunnicula begins to act strangely, and Chester becomes convinced that he's planning to escape. Victor Garber is exceptional as he gives each character--canine, feline, or human--a distinct voice and identity. As his voice switches from that of the arrogant, know-it-all Chester; to exuberant, energetic Howie; to practical, caring Harold the dog, it's not hard to imagine the animals having conversations like this. The humor exists on several levels, from slapstick to literary, and Garber manages to make these audiobooks equally enjoyable for children and adults.
(Graphic fiction. 8-12)Pub Date: 2000
Duration: 1 hr, 45 mins
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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