WAR OF THE WORLDS

Christopher Hurt delivers the narrative of this early science fiction classic in a peculiar British accent--almost American-sounding except for certain words and dropped "r's"--but he provides the characters' dialogue with familiar British accents. He moves the story along (despite the frequent mention of minor geographical particulars--Wells's attempt at verisimilitude, no doubt--gumming things up) and renders clearly its scientific speculation and social satire, its moments of deep emotion, and its close observation of humanity, in both courage and folly. He conveys suspense but, unfortunately, fails at conveying the excitement of violent and dramatic action. Even so, a solid and accomplished telling still compels. W.M. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 06]