THE SIXTEEN TREES OF THE SOMME

Robin Laing's performance of this audiobook--a novel by the author of the well-known NORWEGIAN WOOD--is thoughtful and meticulous. Part family saga, part mystery, the story spans Norway, France, and the Shetland Islands as Edvard learns the details surrounding his unusual early history. Laing has a pleasing voice, which he alters effectively to suit each speaker, sometimes to memorable effect. His pace and inflection are steady and reliable, allowing the listener to settle in and absorb the story. The translation of the text is largely seamless; some dialogue sounds stilted, but the story itself helps to overcome these awkward moments. The audiobook is well produced, and the story is out of the ordinary, making this a good listen for a variety of audiences. L.B.F. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2022]