GREAT EXPECTATIONS

Great literature can pose problems for narrators. If the book is a classic, the pitfalls are that the listener has a preconceived notion of how the book should sound and, perhaps, how the characters themselves should sound. It is, thus, heartening to listen to Michael Page's narration of Dickens's tale. He sheds new light on the text and shows off his collection of personalities and voices. Page twists his English accent so that the characters have their own unique inflections, laughs and resonance. His voice is slightly nasal but full. He's exceptionally good at setting the tone of this rather wistful novel. And his marvelous diction and pacing make the story vibrant and interesting. R.I.G. ©AudioFile, Portland, Maine [Published: MAY 98]