What Katy Did

First published in 1872, this old-fashioned story espouses old-fashioned values brought to life with gentle good humor by Laurel Lefkow. Her reading perfectly captures the quirky, kind-hearted, if bossy, spirit of Katy, the oldest of six children being raised by their busy father, a doctor, with the help of his fussy sister, Aunt Izzy. In a marketplace full to bursting with edgy, issue-based children's books, this title is a quiet relief, a timeless story of perseverance and love overcoming adversity. Reminiscent of HEIDI and THE SECRET GARDEN, it's a comfort food of a book about secret hideouts and picnics and homemade valentines. Laurel Lefkow will softly lead the child or family listener into this beloved little treasure from a bygone era. D.G. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine

Katy, the spunky and eldest of the Carr children, leads the other five on imaginative adventures, much to the consternation of Aunt Izzie who cares for them. Balancing on the ice house roof, holding poetry recitations in the loft, and playing the game of Kikeri in the dark are only a few. All this changes with the inspirational visit of Cousin Helen. Barbara Caruso's narration carries this story of yesteryear. She presents in a confident and authoritative voice and takes great enjoyment in telling of Katy's escapades. Her modulated voice carries the listener from Katy's spontaneous and scattered existence to her new world in which the personal ideals of study, helping people, and becoming famous are a reality. A.R. (c) AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine

Katy Carr grows from a heedless girl to a responsible teen in this classic story. Narrator Laurel Lefkow brings Katy's earnest ambitions to life with a pleasant voice. She succeeds in conveying the simple sweetness of this old-fashioned family story. While modern listeners may not understand Katy's protracted illness, they will identify with her desire to endure patiently and to be a help to her family. Voices for each of Katy's five siblings are distinct, and the adult voices of her father and Aunt Izzy are equally strong. A sensitive abridgment also contributes to this fine recording. Take a step back in time with this hopeful story of family life. C.A. (c) AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine

Eloise Oxer's thoughtful delivery is ideal for this 1872 classic about 12-year-old Katy Carr, who dreams of being sweet and beloved but often falls short. When their mother dies, Aunt Izzie, who's often impatient, oversees Dr. Carr, Katy, and her five younger siblings. The contrast between Katy and Aunt Izzie is amusingly dramatized by Oxer, who also skillfully captures the diverse ages and personalities of each child. It's moving to hear the children's exuberance and then the drastic change after Katy is seriously injured. Oxer's standout character is Cousin Helen, who maintains a positive attitude despite a lifetime as an invalid. Her influence on Katy is profound and offers young listeners a fascinating look at life in nineteenth-century America. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine