ORACLE NIGHT

Compelling at times and tedious at others, Paul Auster's ORACLE NIGHT is an unusual book. The story of nine days in narrator Sidney Orr's life, during which he lives a "Twilight Zone" existence, is more aptly described as a series of stories within a story. However, the book's plot seems to be missing something, and the ending doesn't tie everything together as well as the reader expects. Auster has a droll, almost twangy, voice, which he uses to good effect. Although his style and tone are low-key, he adds emotion when the story needs it. ORACLE NIGHT is likely to be revered by Auster's many fans, while leaving newcomers shaking their heads. D.J.S. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 05]