THE PURSUIT OF ALICE THRIFT

Alice Thrift, surgical intern and second in her Harvard Medical School class, is a lonely, almost reclusive, woman who never learned tact or social graces. When Ray Russo, a loud, flashy carnival fudge-seller, begins pursuing her, she is overwhelmed by his attention blitz. Alice relates the backstory of their courtship and doomed marriage with the dry wit and ironic humor of a survivor of the war between the sexes. Narrator/author Elinor Lipman doesn't attempt to perform but, because these are her creations, her reading offers insights into their motives and behaviors. Lipman's voice is delicate yet direct, perfect for Alice's overly serious, deadpan observations, especially concerning Ray's shortcomings and her friends' dire warnings. Lipman's intimate connection with each character makes this, her eighth novel, a worthwhile listening experience. S.J.H. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 03]