LITTLE WEIRDS

Jenny Slate narrates her collection of personal essays, and its title confirms her recognition that she’s created something new. Elements of prose poems; reflective musings; fairy tales; works on identity, love, and loss, among many other subjects, offer intimate glimpses of Slate’s creative, quirky mind. Listeners shouldn’t expect the comedy Slate’s often known for. Here the author sounds more wistful, contemplative, and searching than funny, with humor appearing as an occasional byproduct of her sifting through past experiences, rather than as a goal. Listening becomes an adventure filled with surprises, not just in subject matter but also in presentation, as Slate adds meaning through vocal variation, perfectly toned asides, emphasis, and a highlighting of internal rhymes that help pieces connect on a subconscious—if not always literal—level. J.C.G. 2021 Audies Finalist © AudioFile 2020, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2020]