THE DEPORTEES AND OTHER STORIES

These eight short stories by the prize-winning Irish novelist all focus on some aspect of multiculturalism in modern Ireland. All but one are almost instantly recognizable as the work of Roddy Doyle—the stories are characterized by broad humor or satire and often feature young people as the main characters. The exception is “The Pram,” a superb ghost story. Hugh Lee is an outstanding match for the material. The characters in every story are given distinct voices that seem true to the personalities being portrayed. Rapid-fire conversations sound as if they’ve been recorded in real life. Lee’s performance of “The Pram,” in particular, is a tour de force, offering the voices of a Polish nanny, two small Irish girls, and a range of Irish adults. The listener is unquestionably in Ireland throughout this excellent production. R.E.K. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 08]