TO THE STARS

In this high-end space opera, L. Ron Hubbard reveals himself to have been far more than the reclusive creator of Scientology--he was a skilled sci-fi scribe and futurist. A tough, edgy tale explores the emotional and cultural fallout of near-light-speed travel: Your fresh-faced sweetheart may be senile by the time you return to Earth, and you may not speak the native tongue so well anymore. As TO THE STARS tackles the existential problems of relativity and coming-of-age, a cast of talented pros, strong character development, and sterling production values make this a rich listen. Special kudos to Jim Meskimen as the terse, enigmatic Captain Jocelyn and to the sound effects team for a smashing, lush job. Alluring packaging plus a bonus CD of tone poems by jazz favorite Chick Corea makes this a standout audio offering. D.J.B. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 05]