ST. DALE

A busload of unlikely travel companions, thrown together by accident, luck, or choice, begins a modern-day pilgrimage to honor the memory of seven-time NASCAR champion Dale Earnhardt. With track insider Harley Claymore as tour director, the improbable pilgrims begin a journey of the NASCAR circuit. From Bristol to Daytona, they leave wreaths and heartfelt messages for "The Intimidator." Anna Fields’s superb characterizations, whether priest or honeymooner, seriously ill child or Alzheimer’s patient, bring each character energy and dignity. Spot-on with good-old-boy accents, Fields also does well as the wacky Wiccans who plan a racetrack wedding. Sharyn McCrumb offers an unpatronizing look into the world of small town America, trailer parks, and stock car racing, as well keen insights into the human need for heroes. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 05]