OLIVE, AGAIN Olive Kitteridge, Book 2

Kimberly Farr, who performed Elizabeth Strout's previous Olive Kitteridge novel to fine effect, does it again in this newest examination of Crosby, Maine's, odd and marvelous inhabitants, starting with Olive herself. Awkward, brusque Olive has a beau of sorts, a fellow with a large stomach and large issues. Despite the issues, he makes her feel loved. For more than that, you must listen. We also meet teenagers, pensioners, Olive's son and daughter-in-law, church ladies, law-breakers, shopkeepers, and other fascinating everyday folks. Farr has the plain accents and often abrupt speech down pat. She hints at personality without overplaying, and reads the stories with sympathy. They are full of tragedy and joy and life's flotsam and jetsam. Prepare to savor every word. A.C.S. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2019]