THE BOOK OF GREEK AND ROMAN FOLKTALES, LEGENDS, AND MYTHS

Kristin Atherton brings two different modes to her narration of this broad compendium of classical stories--myths, legends, anecdotes, even jokes. For the scholarly framework, her voice is somewhat harsh and her manner brusque, perhaps meant to distinguish the commentary from the fictions. It certainly contrasts with her full-throated, heartfelt, and nuanced performance of the stories themselves, most notably the long story of Cupid and Psyche. She switches from narration to acting at every opportunity, even for a line or a quote, with graceful fluidity. Periodic repetition--the author's summary of a story we've just heard--can be tedious, but Atherton's brisk energy helps the listener move through. Overall, a skillful performance balanced between no-nonsense commentary and impressive, emotionally affective acting. W.M. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2023]