Around The World In 80 Days.

AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS. Michael Palin. 1999. Read by Michael Palin. 6 cds. 7.5 hrs. BBC Audiobooks America. 0-5635-2473-1. $64.95. Vinyl; content, author notes. JSA 

In the fall of 1988, Michael Palin started a trip to circumnavigate the world, as Jules Verne's fictional hero Phileas Fogg had done 115 years earlier. Palin started at the Reform Club in London and used only means of transport that would have been available to Fogg. The trick was to return to the Reform Club in 80 days. His zany adventure was done with the humor of Monty Python's Flying Circus, a TV program Palin helped create.

This is a gripping audio adventure; once started, it is difficult to put aside. Palin reads in a lively way and the listener can't help wondering what he will face next. He is wonderful at creating alternate voices for his many characters. Transport is irregular to say the least! Will he hop on a truck, a camel, float along in the Indian Ocean on a dhow, or join a container ship crew? Who will he meet in the process? And what will he say about your country? This audio was made into a documentary for British TV and would be good for all ages since it is a real adventure story. Rozelle Overmire, San Francisco, CA

J--Recommended for junior high school students. The contents are of particular interest to young adolescent and their teachers.

S--Recommended for senior high school students.

A--Recommended for advanced students and adults. This code help librarian and teachers working in high schools where there are honors and advanced placement students. This also will help extend KLIATT's usefulness in public libraries.