BEHIND THE LINES

A compilation of soldiers' letters home sounds maudlin on the face of it, but Behind the Lines is touching and tastefully recorded. A cast of readers with appropriate accents brings to life the voices of veterans of the Revolutionary and Civil Wars, both World Wars, and even those serving abroad today. Even foreign soldiers--enemies at the time--are given fair time. Short bios inform listeners as to the outcomes of each soldier's tour of duty. There is a universality, as all the soldiers miss their homes, families, and sweethearts. Though their convictions and loyalties may be diametrically opposed, many retain a perky gallows humor through it all. The humor and sorrow are ably voiced. Oddly, the audiobook, if anything, serves as an antiwar paean and a fascinating insight into the unintentional literature of war. D.J.B. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 06]