THIS ONE AND MAGIC LIFE

The death of Artie Sullivan brings her relatives back to the family home near Mobile Bay in Alabama and casts them all into explorations of their pasts. Narrator Linda Stephens carries the story along well and delightfully characterizes the Sullivan family. Each is vocalized with a sweet, lilting Southern accent; especially melodic are the lines of Artie's mother, Sarah, and her 10-year-old niece, May. Stephens's skill makes the listener wish Sarah had speaking lines during her time of suffering. As the family prepares to honor Artie's surprising final wish, listeners stay attentive to this remarkable performance of the Sullivan family secrets. J.J.B. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 05]