Gr all levelsPenguin's production amplifies the fact that A.A. Milne has created some of the most memorable poetry and prose in children's literature. Charles Kuralt narrates all the tapes. When We Were Very Young resounds with Kuralt's lively reading of the nonsensical and onomatopoetic rhymes that fill the heads of toddlers. Opposite these poems, the narrator reads, with loving care, the verses about the real and imaginary playmates that warm youngsters' hearts. Now We Are Six reflects the growing complexity of a child's world. The narrator's voice is soft and vulnerable when reading of the innocent, inquisitive thoughts that preoccupy children, yet Kuralt speaks with a touch of exasperation when reading the poems depicting the young's struggle to understand the adult world. He does equally as well with Milne's stories. All the inhabitants of the Hundred Acre Wood are introduced and their humorous escapades chronicled in Winnie-the-Pooh. While portraying the characters, Kuralt's child-like tone reflects their goodness, innocence, and wee intellect. The House at Pooh Corner continues the adventures of Pooh and introduces the bouncing, pouncing, lovable Tigger. Besides the delight children will experience when listening to the light-hearted, captivating stories, young listeners will also identify with the universal hopes, fears, and wishes of the characters. Kuralt's deep, learned-sounding voice gives the narration a fatherly, comforting feel. Libraries will want to acquire these high quality productions.Mark P. Tierney, William B. Wade Elementary School, Waldorf, MD

[Editors Note: This is a combined review with WINNIE-THE-POOH.]--This program exemplifies the potential quality audio has for complementing text. Soothing music introduces and links the stories and verses. Subtle sounds of nature immerse the listener in Pooh's world and provide a backdrop for Peter Dennis's enchanting performance. Dennis's ability to switch characters and moods allows him to accurately portray the range of characters in the stories--from the melancholy sound of Eeyore's voice to Pooh's empty-headed speech. These talents shine prominently in the "When We Were Very Young" poems. Dennis expresses the multitude of emotions in a child-like tone which is key to the success of the program. All ages will enjoy this marvelous performance of Milne's words. M.P.T. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine