BLACK DOGS

This fictional memoir scrutinizes the beliefs and personalities of Bernard and June Tremaine, the in-laws of the narrator. Their path toward greater meaning in life, whether through Bernard's political activism or June's spiritual reflections, is charted by their son-in-law, who responds to their oblique progress over the decades. The title refers to an incident when June is menaced by two dogs symbolizing modern evil. The novel is rich in thought, personality, and metaphor, which are nicely nuanced by Steven Crossley's understated reading. Crossley absorbs the listener by giving an appropriately casual and reflective reading. His half-amused tones reveal the narrator's affection for his in-laws and his inability to accept their shifting views. G.H. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 06]