LUNCHEON OF THE BOATING PARTY

In the style of her earlier work, GIRL IN HYACINTH BLUE, Vreeland revisits the art world--this time the world of the Impressionists, specifically Pierre-Auguste Renoir. This fictionalized account of one of his most famous works is clever and multifaceted. Karen White's performance is eloquent and sweetly enthusiastic. She pays special attention to the French pronunciations, which are murmured gracefully and without pretension. The narrative has slower moments wherein it seems Vreeland tries too hard to instruct rather than artfully illustrate; regardless, Karen White's reading is pleasant, and the descriptions are vivid and sparkling. This audiobook makes for good entertainment, transporting the listener to France and teaching a little art history at the same time. L.B.F. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 07]