GEORGE ORWELL

This excellent literary biography is one of the most complete ones available about Eric A. Blair, a.k.a. George Orwell, who was one of the great writers of the twentieth century. The author of ANIMAL FARM and 1984, among many other works, was a complex character who is well-served by a biographer who does not attempt to force him into a more singular, and therefore more understandable, person. Christopher Kay presents an interesting reading. His pacing is excellent--never monotonous and always appropriate to the action being described. When he reads the many quotes from letters, literary and political reviews of Orwell's work, and interviews, he adopts a distinctly different voice. This device works well, signaling that someone other that the biographer is speaking. Kay's engaged and engaging narration keeps the listener focused throughout this long, engaging biography. R.E.K. (c) AudioFile 2004, Portland, Maine [Published: DEC 04/ JAN 05]