THE BREAKER

It’s a rare but joyous occasion when an audiobook simply grabs your attention from the opening lines and will not let you rest until you’ve reveled in its entirety. This listener discovered this title after it had won the 1998 Audie Award for best unabridged fiction. Then unsuspecting, I initiated my voyage to the outback of Australia and to South Africa and the Boer War, and, in the process, became fascinated with Harry Morant, executed in 1902 for the murder of civilians. “Breaker” Morant is a charismatic, tragic figure. Terence Donovan becomes Morant, the soldier, horsewhisperer, poet and “larrikin,” Australian slang for a rowdy. Using Australian and British accents that subtly catch a hint or class of characteristic speech, Donovan brilliantly captures the officers, soldiers, and folk who inhabit the story. His narrative is elegant, brutal and heartbreaking in turn, as he spins out this compelling drama. More than just delivering a great story and wonderful characters, Donovan makes listeners care about every injustice or small triumph in this exceptional audiobook. R.F.W. Winner of AUDIOFILE Earphones Award ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: AUG/SEP 98]