THE PACT

Picoult explores teenage suicide by portraying its effect on two families. Picoult's story jumps back and forth in time, allowing listeners to piece together the puzzle of Emily's death and to understand one character's loss of a child and another's loss of a treasured friendship. George Guidall brings a wealth of experience to this story, easily managing the switches in time and the many characters he portrays with simple shifts in tone and pacing. Guidall is at ease whether he's enacting a teen love scene or a court drama, baby talk or a mature discussion between long-married adults. His steady, professional narration allows listeners to be fully engrossed in this provocative story. J.C.G. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 06]