DEEP PLAY

Diane Ackerman covers the world of play and transcendence in her latest work. Rooted firmly in the physical world, but drawing on a rich combination of biology, mythology, history and philosophy, Ackerman explores the notion of conscious play and its close companions, meditation and spirituality. With her soothing, steady voice, Zurbrugg brings a New Age quality to the reading, effectively downplaying the seriousness of Ackerman's work. Zurbrugg does, however, bring to life Ackerman's poetic enthusiasm for nature and philosophy. While the listener must overlook Zurbrugg's New Age voice, Ackerman's ideas still warrant attention. H.L.S. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/NOV 00]