BOY SWALLOWS UNIVERSE

Stig Wemyss's performance of this unique audiobook is brisk and bold. His gorgeous Australian accent takes some getting used to--largely due to his fast pace--but once the listener is immersed in the story, any confusion largely disappears. What makes this production a challenge is the prose itself. Dalton sweeps from poetic meanderings to clear narrative at a moment's notice. The invested listener is the most likely to acclimate to the all-consuming style; this is not an audio performance for a casual or distracted listener, though. Once the story takes off, Eli's coming-of-age account is distinctive and appealing, thanks in large part to Wemyss's skill and enthusiasm as a narrator. His high energy and keen understanding of the characters bring the production to life. L.B.F. © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: JANUARY 2019]