UP FROM ORCHARD STREET

Widmer's novel of mixed emotions focuses on the Roths, especially family matriarch Manya Roth, and the manner in which they infuse their tenement and neighborhood with warmth and vitality. The book is at times fascinating, at times humorous, and, at other times, a bit tedious. Fortunately, Lorna Raver's reading allows the characters, a term that is equally noun and adjective, to shine through with distinctive and realistic personalities. In particular, Raver captures the strength of Manya Roth and the youthful optimism of her granddaughter, Elke. As a result, Raver not only gives life to the book, she also succeeds in reading with a joy that sustains the listener's interest. D.J. 2006 Audie Award Finalist © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 06]