Donkey Ollie and His Traveling...
Brian Stewart
This audio adventure story tells how Donkey Ollie, Ruthie, Jehu, Alondra, Abner and Elizabeth attempt to deliver the last seven letters of John to the seven churches of Revelation - Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamum, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia and Laodicea. Of course, they bring their African Lion friend Theopolis and Hannibal their elephant buddy as well. After all what is a circus without a lion or elephant? By masquerading as a traveling circus, they know they will be avoiding Roman interference. They secure boat transport in Egypt from Allondra's cousin Ramses the Pharoah. Unfortunately, they decide to take a bath in the Nile which almost turns deadly for the young elephant Muwanna who is rescued from the jaws of a crocodile with the help of the whole circus troop. Finally, they set out for cities located along the rocky Asian Coast accompanied by their faithful observant Seagull Smoothfeather.
As you might expect, this audio book generally follows the screenplay and illustrated comic book, with very few changes. The song lyrics are delightfully poetic and included. The language and content are easily understood. This Circus story is definitely aimed at families, with some clever plot twists and humor for adults as well. The audio book, expertly read by Sidney Stewart is squarely aimed at a child audience with a wonderfully paced cadence. The content of the story is an effective tribute to Brian Stewart's work on Donkey Ollie. This is the eighth story in a rather wonderful series, five already exist as animated films. In my opinion, this is by far the best. There are frequent mentions of subterfuge and danger and new friendships are forged as the ensemble travels from city to city, delivering the secret letters throughout the Roman occupied lands. The Letters of John make up the basis of the Book of Revelation. This is certainly an imaginative way to deliver the letters. I am sure the Apostle John would have been delighted with it.
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