The Silver Donkey.

THE SILVER DONKEY. Sonya Hartnett. 2004. Read by Richard Aspel. 4 cds. 4.25 hrs. Bolinda. 1-74093-586-1. $32.00. Vinyl; plot, reader notes. JSA 

A superb, fully voiced presentation lifts this sweet story into a lively listening experience. Using a French accent, a variety of pitches, and great expression, Aspel differentiates among three French children, their parents, and one of their adult friends, while also appropriately portraying a British lieutenant and his men. The narration is clearly spoken, with just a touch of the Australian speech pattern, and gripping.

The time is WW I and the setting is the French countryside near the Channel. A blinded English officer, hiding in the forest, is discovered by two young sisters, who immediately befriend and nurture him while keeping his presence secret. The officer has deserted his post and is trying desperately to return to his home, where his young brother lies seriously ill. The girls, later joined by their older brother and his friend, are determined to help him cross the water and escape. While they are fomenting a plan, they bring him food and other comforts. He has shown them a tiny silver donkey and while waiting, proceeds to tell four stories featuring brave, patient, loyal donkeys. The first describes Hazel, who carried the Virgin Mary to Bethlehem; the second, a donkey who intercedes with the sky, which is refusing to bring rain to arrogant human beings; the third, one that carries wounded soldiers to safety; and the fourth, the tiny silver one found by the lieutenant's 10-year-old brother and given to him as a lucky charm.

The writing is excellent, describing the natural beauty of the forest as well as portraying vividly the horrors of war in the segments that concern the lieutenant's experiences in battle. The tone is highly moral throughout. Pat Dole, Richmond, VA