LINCOLN IN THE BARDO

Like an Impressionist painting that comes into focus as we soften our gaze, this first novel by the award-winning short story writer is, not surprisingly, a unique art form. “Bardo" refers to the Tibetan plane between death and rebirth; the novel, told from the multiple points of view of a cemetery community, is reminiscent of Wilder's OUR TOWN and the colorful epitaphs of Masters's SPOON RIVER ANTHOLOGY—only darker. Voices chime in with stories of lives and deaths, regrets and grudges as Abraham Lincoln mourns his son Willie, the newest member of the tribe. While it may take a few moments to acclimate to the quirks and syncopated rhythms of this unconventional novel, there’s an undeniable appeal in hearing this impressive cast of narrators. By keeping our listening "gaze" soft, remarkable human forms come into focus. L.B.F. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2017, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2017]