Stone Fox & Top Secret

Reading STONE FOX is a treasured rite of passage for school-age students. Few forget the dogsled race in which Willy faces Stone Fox in a chilling testimony of determination and love. Few students, however, have a similar knowledge of Gardiner's TOP SECRET, a poke-fun look at the school science fair scene that also champions individual creativity and fortitude. To B.D. Wong's credit, he narrates each of Gardiner's stories in a unique manner. For STONE FOX, Wong narrates with quiet reverence, respecting the power of the story and the bond among boy and dog and grandfather without imposing himself into the relationships. For TOP SECRET, Wong playfully creates personas for Allen Brewster, his archetypal science teacher, his nemesis, and each supporting character. A.R. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine

STONE FOX is a well-loved story of a gritty boy and his canine companion, who shoulder family difficulties at great personal cost. TOP SECRET, with its thought-provoking, if farfetched, science fair project, is not as widely known. Presenting Gardiner's two books in a single package offers opportunities for listeners to respond the author's theme as presented by B.D. Wong. Gardiner champions individuals who are creative thinkers and who reject stereotyping. B.D. Wong is steadfast in his loyalty to each protagonist. The determination of both Little Willy and Allen Brewster shines through in Wong's unwavering voice. A.R. (c) AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine