THE KITE

The work of a master storyteller is recited by a master raconteur--himself. The late Canadian humorist W.O. Mitchell has created a novel of irresistible charm about a journalist visiting a small town to interview a wily 111-year-old eccentric. Eloquent descriptive passages contrast with sparkling dialogue. One detects the influence of Mark Twain and Ring Lardner, though softened by a generous humanity. As a narrator, Mitchell sounds like a geezer, as indeed he was when he recorded this abridgment in 1990. He holds forth with shameless abandon, as if seeking only to amuse himself. If you enjoy listening to him, why, all the better! Fortunately, he is a superb performer, brimming with personality and good will, commanding an astonishing range, and vocally inventive. Y.R. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 06]