SWING TIME

Zadie Smith’s writing takes center stage in this exceptional novel of tenuous friendships, racial and gender politics, and the complexity of family relationships. Smith’s language etches precise incidents, characters, and places, all heightened by Pippa Bennett-Warner’s appealing husky voice and spot-on narration. Two black girls meet, recognize themselves in each other, and form a bond. The unnamed narrator and Tracey both love to dance, but when competition rears its ugly head, a love-hate relationship develops. As the girls become women and move on in their lives, Bennett-Warner's delivery reflects gives all the characters indelible personalities. She provides just the right nuances for the girls, their mothers, and the self-involved rock star the narrator works for. Don’t miss this wonderfully written, convincing story, expertly delivered by Bennett-Warner. S.J.H. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2016]