A YEAR IN THE WORLD Journeys of a Passionate Traveler

Actually it was five years, but who’s counting? These essays are Mayes’s account of the many, mostly Mediterranean, countries in which she and her husband have immersed themselves. From flamenco dancing in Seville to boating in Turkey to strolling the dusty streets of Morocco, she, aided by Cassandra Campbell’s excellent reading, makes you feel right there. Meals are served orally with savory sensuality, the pace ensures that you won’t miss a word, and the few negative experiences (tawdry rental houses, crowds at popular Greek sites) are described with a slightly arch tone. Foreign phrases, whether Turkish, French, or Greek, pose no problem. You get the sense that Mayes would be a wonderful traveling companion, so come along. J.B.G. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: OCT/ NOV 06]