THE MAKING OF A PHILOSPHER

The unlikely story of a boy who dreamed of being a circus acrobat but finally settled on mental gymnastics, this recording is a gentle telling of a cerebral tale. Be prepared for some rough sledding when McGinn ever so carefully tries to explain the rudiments of his impressive knowledge of philosophy. Happily, he tempers that with funny anecdotes of the many eccentrics in the profession. The hard-toiling unknown grows in skill and in the respect of his peers, finally finding his stride as a critic and essayist, and ultimately writing 14 books. It's fun to hear about his '80's videogame addiction and befuddled early days as a transplant to L.A., but mostly the inner workings of a little-examined world make this a good listen. D.J.B. (c) AudioFile 2003, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 03]