THE CHEKHOV COLLECTION OF SHORT STORIES

Richard Armitage powerfully delivers these stories through which listeners will see, hear, and feel pre-Soviet Russia and its people. Armitage excels in "Ward 6," as Ivan Gromov, a mental patient, turns his fury on Dr. Andrey Ragin, who blithely says everything and everyone is the same--it's one's perception that differs. This story represents Russia's elite. The conclusion is upsetting but not unexpected. In "Neighbors," Armitage deftly introduces the Ivashin family, whose liberal daughter, Zina, is living with Grigory Vlassitch, a married neighbor. As Zina's brother, Pyotr Ivashin, travels to visit the couple, descriptions of the decrepit estate and memories of his and Vlassitch's friendship add atmosphere. When Ivashin attempts to reason with Zina and Vlassitch, they confuse him, and he fails. Armitage's narration illuminates each seemingly simple story. S.G.B. 2021 Audies Winner © AudioFile 2021, Portland, Maine [Published: FEBRUARY 2021]