THE QUEEN'S PIRATE: Queen Elizabeth I and Sir Francis Drake

Acclaimed storyteller Weiss whisks listeners to 16th-century England via two historical tales on his latest original recording. In "The Story of Queen Elizabeth I," the elderly queen recalls memories of her life, from age four. Listeners learn of Elizabeth's lineage as daughter of King Henry VIII, and the turbulent struggles between religion and government that filled not only her childhood but her time on the throne (to which she ascended at age 25). Such figures as Mary Queen of Scots and William Shakespeare help fill in this succinct but rich tapestry explaining some pivotal moments in English and European history. In "The Story of Sir Francis Drake," young Derek is regaled by the often perilous adventures (including the round-the-world passage on the Golden Hind) of famous sea captain Sir Francis Drake as recounted by Drake's former cabin boy/sailing mate, William Deacon. As Drake served under Queen Elizabeth I, Weiss cleverly dovetails their stories when Drake presents Elizabeth with riches plundered from the Spanish. Throughout, Weiss's dramatic vocal characterizations enliven the accessible presentation of copious facts and key political and cultural issues. This captivating overview will be welcome in many family and classroom audio collections. Ages 7-up. (Oct.).