THE CLOSED CIRCLE

In Jonathan Coe's satisfying sequel to THE ROTTERS' CLUB, the Birmingham high school students are now middle-aged and facing the eve of the twenty-first century. They are still self-consciously afflicted--with nostalgia (Benjamin still pines for his one true love), old mysteries (Claire still misses her sister, who disappeared in the 1970s), and questions of self-identify. Now accountants, journalists, politicians, and parents in varying marital situations, their individual decisions and the events of their time connect and conflict in unexpected ways. Most satisfying is the continuation of Colin Buchanan as narrator. His enthusiastic reading and lovely British accent will keep listeners entertained. His interpretation of the multiple characters is wonderfully nuanced. A.B. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 06]