THE ADVENTURES OF TOM SAWYER is an amusing, nostalgic look at boyhood on the Mississippi River in the mid-19th century, and is based on Mark Twain's memories of his youth in the river town of Hannibal, Missouri. Many of the story's characters and episodes are constructed from the author's early adventures, and Tom Sawyer is probably Mark Twain in mufti. The book is also an insight into Twain's character: he believed that in this complex world innocence was to be found only in the heart of a boy. Editorial Reviews Narrator Rebecca K. Reynolds energetically conveys the spirit of this abridged classic, which is intended for young listeners. Reynolds's Tom is memorable when he slyly "invites" his buddies to paint Aunt Polly's fence. Twain's humor and sarcasm are deftly rendered, along with his story's sometimes funny superstitions, nostalgia, and old-time words, such as "confound it." To add further charm, Reynolds occasionally seems entertained by her own delivery. Listeners will accompany-and be just as scared-as Tom and Becky Thatcher when they are lost in the cave, and Injun Joe is frightening in his many guises. Most winning are Tom and Huck's private conversations, while their hunt for treasure is surprisingly fun and timeless. Although this is intended for young people, older listeners can also enjoy this treat. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine - FEBRUARY 2020 - AudioFile