THE TOILERS OF THE SEA

Patrick Dickson abridged, produced, and resplendently narrates this novel, which some consider to be Hugo's finest work. In the 1820s, Gilliatt is a fisherman who lives on Guernsey in a haunted house, and because of this, his neighbors mistrust him. Dickson skillfully captures him; Mess Lethierry, a wealthy shipowner; and Deruchette, his daughter, who is unwisely loved by Gilliatt. In addition to Dickson's spirited delivery of Hugo's description, music and sound effects, including the keening of seagulls, add atmosphere to the constant presence of the sea. Listeners will feel apprehensive when Lethierry offers his daughter in marriage to any man who can locate a missing ship, and Gilliatt jumps at the opportunity. Dickson's Gilliatt is sublime as he nobly battles for his prize in the heartrending conclusion. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2016, Portland, Maine [Published: JULY 2016]