ORRIS AND TIMBLE: STAR STORIES written by Kate DiCamillo, illustrated by Carmen Mok, read by Mark Bramhall

No matter how you approach it, on the page or in your ear, the last in Orris and Timble series, STAR STORIES, is a fully satisfying conclusion to the fabulous trilogy. This is due to the steady excellence of Kate DiCamillo’s writing, Carmen Mok’s illustrations, and the audio read by Mark Bramhall. Mark Bramhall’s narration shows his deep understanding of the characters—Orris, a rat, and Timble, an owl as well as their unlikely friendship. He excellently executes the outward crabbiness of grouchy Orris and his more vulnerable interiority. In this audio, he pictures young patient Timble’s affection for the owl and his desire for Orris to experience the joy of flight with him. DiCamillo writing strength comes from her amazing blend of rich detailing, spareness of expression and gently voiced themes of trust, friendship and storytelling. Carmen Mok again shows her talents, showing us the characters’ tenderness and the awwww quality of her pictures. All three embrace the tale telling tone which has built this series, the final scene celebrating the magic these tales have brought the two friends and their devoted fans. You can find a link to the book and audio in the purchase button below.