HIDE-AND-SEEK WITH ANGELS A Life of J.M. Barrie

Simon Vance's pleasant, inviting tones draw listeners into Chaney's expansive examination of J.M. Barrie's remarkable life. Chaney traces Barrie's modest beginnings as a Scottish weaver's son whose mother paid little attention to him, preferring instead his older brother, David. Sadly, David died in a skating accident at 13, and Jamie made up stories to assuage his mother's grief. He never stopped, becoming one of the most well-known, and wealthiest, authors of his time. The author covers much of Barrie's writing, as well as a great deal of his personal life, but shies away from any psychological investigation. There's nothing flashy in this understated performance; to great effect, Vance relies on his impeccable timing and resonant voicing to introduce Peter Pan's famous creator. S.G. © AudioFile 2023, Portland, Maine [Published: DECEMBER 2023]