The Cricket in Times Square

Chester Cricket's departure from bucolic Connecticut was never planned, but his arrival at the 42nd Street subway station brings newfound friendships and delight to both people and animals. Young Mario, whose parents own a subway newsstand, finds the cricket and, in spite of his mother's protestations, is able to house, feed, and share the musical secrets of this charming insect. Tucker Mouse and Harry Cat befriend the new arrival and teach him the ways of subway survival. Tony Shaloub lets the Newbery Honor Book speak for itself. As an unobtrusive narrator, he furthers the story by giving personality to each character--a devoted Mario, a gentle insect hero, an excitable Mama Bellini, a wise music critic, an emotional mouse, and a savvy cat. Enjoy, and enjoy again and again. A.R. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine

When Chester, a musically talented country cricket from Connecticut, is accidentally transported to the 42nd Street Subway Station in New York City, he finds shelter in a newsstand and makes friends with Mario, a young boy, Tucker the Mouse and Harry the Cat. All the warmth and humor of this Newbery Honor animal adventure are heightened by actor Rene Auberjonois's expressive reading. Vocal characterizations are superb--just right for soft-spoken Chester, fast-talking Tucker and streetwise Harry. The brief passages of music for Chester's performances are delightfully cricket-like and charming. Could anything be better than reading Selden's The Cricket in Times Square? Yes, listening to this audio performance. C.R.A. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine