BEFORE WOMEN HAD WINGS

From the first sentence of this novel, listeners are entranced both by its vivid sense of place and people, as well as the author's lilting, twangy Southern accent. Protagonist Bird Jackson tells listeners of her mother's decision to name her daughters after birds so they can fly above the life of poverty into which they were born. The mythic stage is set for Bird's adventure to find a guide and spread her wings. Connie May Fowler's childlike voice is wonderfully suited to the 9-year-old heroine without ever being affected or condescending. There aren't many audiobook stories of self-discovery as engaging as this one. R.A.P. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 98]