HIGH WIZARDRY is the third book in a fantasy series that involves our world, space, and alternate universes. The plots tend to get very technical with scientific jargon--in this case, computer technology--which makes them far easier to listen to than to read. This story focuses on Darine, a 10-year-old new to wizardry and the necessary spells, but a genius with--and without--computers. Christina Moore's narration imbues Darine with intelligence, impatience, and arrogance. Lacking the emotional maturity and wisdom of the older children and adults, she is a child who holds herself apart from others. Darine's sister Nita and her friend Kit, along with the parents and others they meet, are easily distinguished by tone and accent. Moore's vocal flexibility truly shines through as she gives a distinct voice and personality to each of the computer robots Darine creates--within the clipped, modulated speech pattern typical of all mechanical voices.
Ages 10+Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2000
Duration: 8 hrs
Publisher: Recorded Books Inc.
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Reader Michael Prichard delivers a convincing rendition of Archie Goodwin, the burly right hand of the portly Nero Wolfe, world-renowned gourmand and detective. Prichard preserves the 1970s setting and 1950s origins of the story, bringing listeners a well-paced narration of murder and politics--a combination of elements that usually guarantees an exciting listen. This audio entertainment is as well formed and fragrant as one of Wolfe's hothouse orchids (the stout sleuth cultivates them by the hundreds in his town house greenhouse) as Goodwin walks us through an explosive murder investigation and political wheeling and dealing in a tough yet intelligent read.
Pub Date: Jan. 15, 2006
Duration: 5 hrs, 30 mins
Publisher: Audio Partners
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
This collection of eight short stories contains gentle tales of fantasy and magic--not the magic of wizards and wands, but of wishing mats and enormous cats and gifts brought by the winds. In a lovely English accent, Lizza Aiken quietly narrates these stories in which magic and good fortune often come to those who deserve it. Although her pitch changes little, she registers a range of emotions--from the sadness of a girl whose necklace of raindrops has been stolen to the joy of a child who moves from a hard life and a ramshackle trailer to a happy home amid the clouds. A NECKLACE OF RAINDROPS would make a soothing choice for a family car trip after a long day.
Ages 6+Pub Date: Jan. 5, 2016
Duration: 1 hr, 45 mins
DD ISBN: 9781101915721
Publisher: Listening Library
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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