July 14, 2003
If they're not turned off by the cheesy theme song (performed by children) and game-show-host style voice that introduces this production, fans of Warner's long-running mystery series will be glad to hear the Alden kids' exploits in audiobook format. Unfortunately, this uninspired production may prove a disappointment. When their grandfather buys them the computer game Ringmaster, Henry, Jessie, Violet and Bennie Alden, as well as their cousin Su Lee, are hooked. The children become so skilled at the game that Ringmaster's creators invite the Aldens to be beta testers for the sequel, Ringmaster II. But as the testing begins, the Aldens realize that the new game seems to be eerily similar to their real life. Along the way issues of company loyalty and creative espionage come to the fore, leaving the Alden kids to unravel the mystery behind Ringmaster. Though Lilly has an assured tone as narrator, her portrayals of the children have a squeaky quality that does not always ring true, and her other characterizations—including a grandfather who sometimes sounds like he's on his last legs—are generally weak. Ages 7-up.