STRESS

Detroit in 1972 is in transition from Motor City to Murder City. The police undercover unit STRESS (Stop the Robberies, Enjoy Safe Streets) inadvertently makes things worse, angering the black community and upping the violence level. Reader Ezra Knight, who is equally at home with Shakespeare or gritty dialogue, follows several plot lines and characters as diverse as socialites and black activists. His rich, expressive voice never loses control of the story, even as the cops lose control of the city. Major players like Charlie Battle, the bright, young, black cop trying to make a bad situation better, and minor ones like Mapes, a cabby witness, are brought to life with humor and sensitivity. There are plenty of light moments, but this is, in essence, a dark tale. J.G. (c) AudioFile 2002, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 02/ JAN 03]