THE BIOGRAPHER'S MOUSTACHE

British writer Kingsley Amis, usually ironic and amusing, is not at his best in this novel, but reader Paul Shelley is. His skill gives this story of a biographer writing about an ego-driven minor author a professional patina that keeps listeners balancing the quality of the narration against the occasional tedium of the tale. Happily, Shelley frequently wins. Blessed with a fine voice, he varies pitch, pace and dramatics to create a worthwhile audio experience. He distinguishes well among members of the British upper class, real and presumed. And he, more than Amis, provides the irony and amusement that the latter's many fans will want. T.H. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: NOV/DEC 97]