Anne of Green Gables

Kate Burton characterizes 11-year-old Anne's passionate, excitable personality with a headlong delivery that makes every bit of her dialogue a near monologue. In contrast, Burton portrays her caretakers, Marilla and her brother, Matthew, as slow speaking, taciturn, and sometimes amused at Anne's overblown emotions. In addition, the descriptive parts of the story are also delivered at a slower pace so that listeners can enjoy the glorious details of the Prince Edward Island locales and the splendors of a bygone era. Just as the red-haired orphan breathes new life into the dull days of the elderly siblings, Burton breathes new life into this 1908 classic, proving, once again, that it has endured the test of time. A magnificent forward by fellow Canadian Margaret Atwood combines her personal and professional views of the story. S.W. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine

Anne Shirley has many faithful fans, and this Focus on the Family Radio Theatre production is likely to please even the most discerning and critical among them. Its faithful adaptation nicely captures lovable, irrepressible Anne, and given its extensive use of dialogue, the book lends itself well to audio. Nearly thirty cast members contribute to this production, and all are professional and capable. Matthew, Marilla, and good-hearted busybody Mrs. Rachel Lynde are especially fine, and Anne herself (narrated by Mae Whitman) sounds appropriately breathless and fervent. The production's pretty musical score and tasteful use of sound effects (realistic and well-chosen) provide what Anne calls "scope for imagination" and complement the actors' performances. This story will indeed be enjoyed by the whole family. J.C.G. 2005 Audie Award Finalist (c) AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine