Charlie's Raven.

CHARLIE'S RAVEN. Jean Craighead George. 2004. Read by Ramon de Ocampo. 4 tapes. 5 hrs. Recorded Books. 1-4193-0571-9. $36.00. Vinyl; plot, reader notes. J

For those interested in wildlife, particularly birds, this nature study highlights ravens in the Teton area of Wyoming. Charlie is 13 and an avid outdoorsman. His happiest times are spent at his grandparents' cabin, well away from the city where his parents live. Granddad has suffered a severe heart attack, and Charlie is deeply concerned about him. Having learned from a Teton Sioux legend that ravens may have magical healing powers, he abducts a baby raven from its nest in the hope that it may cure his grandfather. The bird is named Blue Sky and becomes a beloved member of the family. Since granddad is a naturalist and has been studying raven behavior, he is particularly charmed by Blue Sky and actually seems to gain some strength whenever the bird visits him. Interwoven with the many details of raven development and behavior are glimpses of other wildlife such as moose, wolves, and mountain lions, and the changing seasons of the wilderness, as well as the culture of a Sioux family living in a teepee nearby during the summer. Although Charlie suffers the loss of both his grandfather and Blue Sky in the end, he matures significantly and will always treasure his experiences with them.

De Ocampo is particularly effective in imitating raven vocalizations, adding an authentic note to his semi-voiced narration. He differentiates the characters well and keeps the story lively. (As you probably know, Jean Craighead George is a naturalist herself.) Pat Dole, Richmond, VA

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