The One and Only Shrek! Plus 5 Other Stories

Listeners will surely hear the glee dripping from the full-bodied, though never over-the-top, performances by Streep and Tucci, who read three stories apiece. The works of the late, beloved children's author-illustrator are surprisingly successful as stand-alone vivid audio programs—even without Steig's terrific, witty watercolors. Both actors apparently relish shifting into various character voices, and Streep, especially, demonstrates a great facility for vocal sound effects. The antics of the talking Amazing Bone , Brave Irene and the putrid, green ogre Shrek himself find a whole new flavor on audio. Fans will find much to love in this top-drawer compendium, and so will those who know Shrek only from the blockbuster film adaptations. Ages 5-up. (Apr.)