PLANET SIMPSON

Simpson fans will rejoice at this lengthy thesis, which elevates a long-running cartoon to cultural keystone in a coffee table book for the ears. Narrator Oliver Wyman has a gift for mimicry, delivering not only a lively read, but many satisfying renditions of favorite “Simpsons” characters. The series’ history is exhaustively examined, down to the serial number and title of particular episodes and their significance in the “Simpsons” body of work. While it’s open to question whether “The Simpsons” will prove to be as pivotal a cultural work as the author claims, the rollicking fun of the show shines in this analysis and tribute. D.J.B. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 05]