CLOUD OF SPARROWS

Actor Ron Rifkin reads this epic story of feudal lords, samurais, ninjas, and American missionaries with the calm one would expect of author and Buddhist temple resident Takashi Matsuoka. Whether reading gory deaths, heated battles, or tender love scenes, Rifkin keeps to a smooth tone, which is surprisingly appropriate in any situation. Rifkin's choice not to use any accents for this cross-cultural cast of characters, while lending great dignity to each role, makes it difficult at times to decipher who is speaking. Other than that, the work is nicely produced, with appropriate music separating each chapter. H.L.S. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 03]