Demon Dentist

Alfie has enough to deal with given his father’s ailing health, but now his social worker is insisting that he see the new dentist in town because his teeth are in such a state of disrepair that his smile is fear-inducing. Yet the new dentist is clearly up to no good, and Alfie is determined to prove it, even if he has to have his teeth examined. Author Walliams, also an actor and comedian with considerable experience performing in the U.K., effectively narrates his own book with a soft but throaty voice. His English accent remains appealing and engaging throughout the production. He captures Alfie’s mood while also presenting realistic vocal characters for Alfie and other male characters. Voice actors Jocelyn Lee Esien and Nittin Gantra provide additional lively and colorful characters in this production. The three distinct voices provide a solid mixture of aural enticements, and their parts are well-woven into the narration so that it flows smoothly from each character. Accompanying each chapter’s end is music that also adds to the tone and mood of the story. Ages 8–12. [em]A Harper hardcover. (Mar.) [/em]