CARRIE

Stephen King's first published novel offers a warning to bullies in the person of Carrie White, a high school misfit who wreaks her revenge in a now-famous prom scene. While the story is no less fresh today than it was in 1974, this audio edition promises a "brand-new introduction from the author," which is not, in fact, included in the recording. The story is narrated by Sissy Spacek, who played the title role in the movie. While Spacek perfectly understands the protagonist and amply projects both her hopes and misery, this listener found it unsettling to hear a story about Maine natives in a Maine town read in a clear Texas drawl. Spacek's consistency and acting ability somewhat make up for this incongruity, but King's "Mainiacs" still sound more performed than real. R.L.L. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/NOV 05]