A HUNDRED SMALL LESSONS

Narrator Fiona Hardingham's soft tone and Australian accent set the mood for this character-driven story about two Brisbane women on opposite ends of family life. The audiobook is told from dual perspectives: that of Elsie, who has just moved to an assisted care facility, and that of Lucy, who with her husband has bought Elsie's house. Adding a slight tremor to Elsie's voice and using a brighter tone for Lucy's, Hardingham clearly distinguishes their ages, and her expressive delivery highlights their unique challenges as they each come to terms with a change in circumstances. This quiet story juxtaposes beginnings and endings, showing how lives can cross in surprising ways. Hardingham's gentle, engaging performance captures Elsie's and Lucy's private struggles with losing independence. C.B.L. © AudioFile 2018, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2018]