OPENING ATLANTIS

In the fifteenth century, a Breton tells English fisherman Edward Radcliffe about the uncharted land of Atlantis. Radcliffe decides to gather colonists to build a new life there. Harry Turtledove tells the story of three generations of Radcliffes as they settle the mythical continent and deal with wildlife, rival countries' settlers, and the wake of war at home. Todd McLaren reads with a deep, commanding voice that keeps listeners' attention, deftly handles a variety of accents, and gives the story the broad sweep it needs. Despite science fiction trappings, including strange animals and, of course, the nonexistent land itself, this novel plays out like a historical epic that also makes sharp observations about colonialism and expansion. J.A.S. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: JUNE 2008]