The Sorcerer's Apprentice

PreS-K—Based on the 1797 poem written by Johann Wolfgang von Goethe and made famous as one of the segments of Disney's Fantasia, the story features Tiernan, the apprentice, who is chosen by the Sorcerer because of his "hidden gifts." Tiernan's job at the castle is cleaning and organizing, though he is fascinated by magic and studies spells when he can. When the Sorcerer leaves Tiernan alone for the first time, Tiernan resorts to magic to help him accomplish the final task: sweeping and mopping. However, the magic goes terribly wrong. The bucket won't stop dumping water on the floor, and the castle is in danger of being destroyed. The Sorcerer returns at just the right moment, and all is saved. Although Tiernan fears the worst, the Sorcerer respects his courage and creativity, acknowledging that the young apprentice's gifts could cause him trouble but also, if used well, might serve to make him great. Nicholas Mondelli provides a soothing and melodic narration.