LIFE, THE UNIVERSE AND EVERYTHING

Martin Freeman has the likable manner, precise diction, and restrained silliness that the comedic Hitchhiker books require, as well as, of course, a British accent. In this third book, reluctant space traveler Arthur Dent and associates must stop the inhabitants of the planet Krikkit from destroying the universe because they're upset at not being alone in it. Freeman provides accents--his American accents are accurate, if exaggerated--and funny voices, and his voice is also electronically altered for special effects. At times it's over-the-top goofy, and some of the voice distortions verge on lacking clarity, but generally he's as clear as the sometimes complex whimsy demands. Any fan of the books should enjoy this presentation. W.M. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 06/ JAN 07]