LIEB, Josh. Ratscalibur. 3 CDs. 3:36 hrs. Listening Library. 2015. $27. ISBN 978101915301. digital download. Gr 3-6–Joey, a soon-to-be seventh grader, has recently moved to New York City with his mother. He is not particularly enthralled by big city life. Soon though, Joey’s uncle brings home a special new friend for him—a rat, just like the creatures he has seen about the city. To Joey’s surprise, his new pet rodent begins speaking to him from his cage. He learns that the elderly rat is a ragician (a rat magician) named Gondorff the Grey and he has a special mission for Joey. He must deliver a simple message to his rat cohorts, “I have failed.” The dying Gondorff bites Joey, transforming him into a rat and setting into motion this fun, humorous adventure story that plays off of the mythical Excalibur story. Edoardo Ballerini narrates with enthusiasm, wonderfully voicing each character with lively, distinct personalities and accents. Listeners will be on the edge of their seats while Ballerini takes them along on Joey’s dangerous and action-filled quest into the world of rats, crows, and other animals. Full of puns and parodied names from classic fantasy adventure tales, this animal adaptation is sure to please young fans of “The Lord of the Rings,” the “Redwall” books, and Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of Nimh. ­VERDICT School and public libraries will want to add this first volume in the “Chronicle of the Low Realm” tales to their collections, as this series is sure to become a favorite.–Nicole Lee ­Martin, Grafton-Midview Public Library, OH