Those who are familiar with this series, whether in print or audio format, will continue to revel in the storyline with its cruel twists of fate, tongue-in-cheek humor, and outstanding narration by Tim Curry. Those new to the series will be caught up in the outstanding narration that helps listeners visualize these dreadful and pathetic characters in their dark, Dickensonian settings. His vocal impersonations are gems. The voice of the curmudgeonly banker, Mr. Poe, brings the history of these orphans alive with his nasal, elongated sounds. The sputtering of his intense coughing fits creates the dry, dusty, and dismal life in which Violet, Klaus, and Sunny find themselves. Edgar, the handyman who is in charge of the reluctant heroes, has a flat, American sound that elicits his straightforward and honest approach in opposition to surrounding voices.