Amazon.com Amazon.com Audiobook Review (ISBN 0345307674, Mass Market Paperback)

Fifteen years after the dramatic success of National Public Radio's adaptation of Star Wars, the production team re-formed to create Return of the Jedi: The Original Radio Drama. Though the running time is scaled down to three hours, listeners are still treated to an expanded story line and new scenes. Another fine cast is assembled, with radio series veterans Perry King and Ann Sachs as Han Solo and Leia Organa, and newcomer Joshua Fardon as an excellent Luke Skywalker. While Anthony Daniels (C-3PO) is the only actor from the film, Ed Begley Jr. contributes a gravely voiced Boba Fett, John Lithgow adds a rather somber Yoda, and Edward Asner, hopefully not being typecast, makes a believable Jabba the Hutt--though only an expert would be able to tell if his Huttese pronunciation is correct. The characters of this radio production inhabit a stereo soundscape created by careful blending of sound effects and John Williams's music from the original films. As with the two previous productions--Star Wars and The Empire Strikes Back, Jedi is a treat for the ears--and the mind's eye. Any Star Wars fan will enjoy this production, even though it does mean imagining rather than seeing Anakin with his mask and helmet off or Luke defeating the Rancor. Besides, the Ewoks are much less annoying when you can't see them. (Running time: 3 hours, 3 cassettes) --C.B. Delaney