THRUSH GREEN

June Barrie's warm alto voice and ability to create character add to the many pleasures of this delightful novel by England's premier writer of rural pastorals. Here we follow the loves, rivalries, misfortunes, and joys of the inhabitants of neighboring villages. It's an apparently simple story that is both wise and honest, and it is clear that Barrie appreciates its subtleties. From ill-tempered grave digger to love-stricken young lady, her portrayals are beautifully rendered. This is a book in which not much--except life in its quotidian fascination--happens. Barrie keeps one glued to the earphones. A.C.S. © AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 05/ JAN 06]