THE GIRLS

Narrators Stephanie Zimbalist, and Lolita Davidovich portray the unusual characters of Rose and Ruby Darlen, twins who are conjoined at the head. Born during a tornado in Toronto of an unwed teenaged mother who abandoned them two weeks later, the deformed twins were to be placed in an asylum. Instead, Aunt Lovey, the nurse who cared for their mother during labor, raises them with her husband, Stash, on their rural farm in Ontario. Characterizations are vivid, detailed, warm, and endearing. The soft accents of Slovakia ring true to the character of Grandma. Lyrical piano music introduces the story and is used for chapter breaks. This incredible story seems real because of the outstanding characterizations. G.D.W. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 06/ JAN 07]