Author Description

Product Description Presents full-cast dramatizations of such classic horror tales as "Tell-tale Heart," "Cask of Amontillado," "Gold Bug," and "Fall of the House of Usher." From School Library Journal Gr 6 Up-Talented actors of the St. Charles Players present very entertaining, dramatic versions of "Tell-Tale Heart," "Cask of Amontillado," "Gold Bug" and "Fall of the House of Usher." While most of the narration and dialogue are quoted directly from Poe, there are some additions and changes which make the renditions flow for a younger audience. Sometimes a difficult vocabulary word is changed; sometimes the narration is adapted so that the word or event is better defined in context. The speech of the actors is excellent; pitch, tone, and speed change frequently to establish or change mood. All stories are presented at a reasonably fast pace so that students are not frightened for too long. But they are kept on the edge of their seats in anticipation of the conclusions. Regional accents are well done, and even "faint" whispers can be heard. Eerie sound effects such as glasses tinkling, birds, echoes, and screams further heighten suspense and draw listeners into the tense stories. An excellent choice.-Claudia Moore, W.T. Woodson High School, Fairfax, VA Copyright 1999 Cahners Business Information, Inc.