REVIEWS "The new line of single audio compact disc stories from August House will appeal to a wide audience; but particularly those who enjoy good stories and yarns. Humor is also a mainstay of Bobby Norfolk's style of story-telling, as Norfolktales illustrate. His blend of world folk stories and delightful humor with appeal to those interested in traditional African tales as well as short stories in general."

"Listening to Norfolk tell stories is always enjoyable and never fails to elicit numerous smiles and chuckles. His energy level is phenomenal. He often doesn't come up for a breath. At times, it seems as though he is making two vocalizations (a word and a voiced sound effect) at the same time. Even thought I have listened too many of his recordings, I never tire of his endless array of sound effects, character voices and clever use of pacing to achieve comedic effect and enhance meaning. Through the skilled use of his voice and his fast-paced style, the stories jump right out of the CD player. This recording is not a good choice for bedtime material, but will certainly add a spark to your child's daily routine. This collection of world folktales include stories from the African and Appalachian traditions. My favorite was the jump story (a story that makes you jump out of your seat) "Wiley and the Hairyman." Norfolk's version of this boogeyman-type tale will appeal to older children. Even though there are a few jumps in this story, the scare factor is mild due to Norfolk's portrayal of Wiley as a youngster who is given great support and advice by his parents and is very much in control of the situation. This entertaining story with its humorous ending is sure to become one of your youngster's favorites."

"With a GAWAMP! And a GALUM! And a buzz, buzz, buzz, Norfolk's persona erupts from your sound system and entertains the listener with tales from Africa, Eastern Europe, Appalachia, and Ireland. Not your traditional bedtime tales, these stories are related with gusto and a booming voice, leaving all listeners entertained and energized. The reading style is a lively example for anyone who narrates for any reason, and most particularly for library science students."

"The Norfolktales audio CD is a compilation of five stories for all ages, from preschool to high school. Bobby Norfolk's energy comes through full force on this presentation of classic and new stories. He is a master of voice, giving the characters in each tale their own place in the story. His retelling of "Wiley and the Hairyman" is spectacular. You become Wiley as he battles the forces of evil with his ever-faithful dogs and smart, smart mama. "Tilly and the Eight Steps" is a twist on Bill Cosby's scary Chicken Heart tale, taking you back in time to your childhood. The Anansi stories are retold in a style as Bobby's own, wisdom literature for all to hear young and old alike. His retelling of "Jack and the Three Sillies" is a great tool to use with children in an interactive storytelling session. I would recommend this CD as an addition to any library collection. Teachers and parents alike would have great fun utilizing this master storyteller's presentation, not only in their classroom but also on a road trip in the car's CD player. You sense that these may, in fact, be some of Bobby's favorite tales as the title states."