THE FAIRY TALES OF HERMANN HESSE

Hesse is the Nobel Prize-winning author of mystical novels, such as Steppenwolfe and Narcissus and Goldmund. On the high end of the New Age, these six fascinating tales remind one of Kafka and Dinesen, except for the brightening influence of Zen. Sixties rock star Donovan lends them a Scottish burr and hoarse whisper, with guitar punctuation. Though he veers dangerously close to monotone, he gives a surprisingly rich, personal interpretation. Not for a single sitting--this mind-expanding, idiosyncratic offering is best appreciated one story at a time. Y.R. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 98]