A GOOD MAN IN AFRICA

Imperialism has corrupted not only the British government, but also the British novel. This satire follows the travails of a mid-level diplomatic functionary as he drinks and debauches himself silly in a fictional African backwater. As literature, it's sub par. Ian Whitcomb's narration saves it. In an easy, playful British accent he creates vivid characters while the "wink and nod" quality to his voice perfectly captures the book's satire. He's also good in his pacing; he keeps the book interesting when it bogs down in descriptions of drunken or sexual inanities. He's fun to listen to--perhaps next time he'll have better material. R.I.G. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: JAN 98]