World's Greatest Stories - review

I love listening to a good storyteller, so I was interested to review a CD in The World's Greatest Stories series. I hadn't heard of this series before I was asked to do the review for the TOS Homeschool Crew, but I have to say I am very impressed.

I'm sure you can tell by the title that this is a Bible story CD. But it's not just a retelling of Bible stories, rather it is word-for-word scripture. George W. Sarris is a exceptionally talented storyteller who recites the scripture passages of some of the most exciting Bible stories in a very dramatic manner which engages listeners of all ages. I liked how he gives a brief introduction to each story, and then uses a variety of dramatic voices and sound effects to make the stories come alive.

I received Volume 1, The Prophets which contains five stories:

• The Blazing Furnace
• The Handwriting on the Wall
• Daniel in the Lions' Den
• Elijah and the Prophets of Baal
• The Prophecy of Jonah

I especially enjoyed the smarmy voice of Nebuchadnezzar's advisors, the "rage and fury" of Nebuchadnezzar when the Hebrew children wouldn't bow down, the drunken voice of Belshazzar, the whining servant's voice, and the sing-song chanting of the false prophets of Baal. Also, the sound effects: the crackling of the fire and the snarling lions.

The best part is that since it's word-for-word from the Bible (your choice of NIV or KJV) the children can follow along in their own Bibles, which makes it even more meaningful.

Six volumes are currently available on CD for $7.95 each. You can listen to audio clips of each before you order.