FATBOY AND THE DANCING LADIES

Jerome Pride's narration is spot-on in Michael Holman's sequel to LAST ORDER AT HARRODS. FATBOY is a stinging look at politicians, aid-agency workers, and the local population of Kuwisha, a fictional East African country. Pride avoids stereotyping the larger-than-life characters Holman creates, offering a controlled, understated performance. He captures the sharp-tongued Mrs. Charity Tangwenya Mupanga, owner of Harrods International Bar (and Nightspot), where much of the action occurs; the disgraced Ferdinand Mlambo, who must now carry the name "Fatboy"; and the assortment of politicos and do-gooders who alternately help and harm the nation. Holman, former Africa editor for Britain's FINANCIAL TIMES, takes everyone to task with his scathing wit—from street children to clueless but well-meaning social organizations. Through it all, Pride turns in a winning performance. S.J.H. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2008]