CRAWFISH DREAMS

Griot Audio brings the best of contemporary African-American writing to the listening public. CRAWFISH DREAMS is a good choice for recording, especially when presented by a gifted narrator like Lizan Mitchell. Camille Brousarde, matriarch of a Creole family transplanted to Los Angeles, greets life's many problems with humor and the same laidback response: "Praise the Lord and pass the gumbo pot." As Camille wrestles with her challenging brood of grown children and cooks mouth-watering Creole recipes, listeners come to care about her core values, sense of purpose, and pride of place. Mitchell is especially believable in her portrayal of Camille, who remains committed to the community she has lived in all her life; she also brings alive the other characters, including Camille's grandson, just out of jail. This heartwarming story provides insight into life in Watts. D.L.G. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 04/ JAN 05]