STEVE MARTIN The Magic Years

The antics that proliferate this first-person reminiscence by author and lifelong friend Morris Walker speak for themselves. The adept Barrett Whitener at first sounds a bit erudite for the book’s inevitable craziness, but he soon settles in, even adopting the childhood “language” used by the chums and delivering the signature “ex-cuuuse me” with just enough emphasis. Irony and lilt in prudent doses are required for this book full of nostalgia and preposterous youthful frolicking. Whitener finds it, with a clear, distinct voice that produces an effortless listen. M.L.L. © AudioFile 2000, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/MAY 00]