To Build a Fire

Ignore the package's shouts about this being an "audio movie" and a "masterpiece" with "spectacular sound effects." Listeners will find this overwrought version of one of London's survival tales a worthwhile listen, though not as life-changing as the publisher seems to hope. Perhaps if Ziggurat had concentrated more closely on the story instead of music and effects, this listen might have held the value it strives too hard to achieve. This recording, however, would probably be fine fare for young people new to audio theater and those studying London in school. D.J.B. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine

Jack London's eerie short story of life and death in the Yukon cold is brought to a vivid new level. This audio presentation is fully scored with music which could easily stand alone and is narrated to perfection. The slow, low voice of Gonneau, enhanced with the slightest trace of accent, is paced to capture every nuance of confidence, fear, panic and resignation. This combination creates a haunting tone which enlivens every phrase and makes the experience of the literature, the music and the spoken word endure. For any sceptic of the power of the audio format, this is an excellent response. R.F.W. (c)AudioFile, Portland, Maine