MELLON An American Life

Andrew Mellon had the Midas touch in business, amassing a fortune during the early twentieth century by making prescient and lucrative investments, many in fine art. The tutelage of his father, Thomas, nurtured the rare financial talent but neglected any education in social skills. Andrew's disastrous marriage plagued him for life. Narrator John Mayer's slow pace, excellent diction, and sandy voice allow for maximum enjoyment of a biography rich with American history that spans 100 years. He uses subtle vocal nuances for the quotes of the principals without making them distracting. The production shows how a long and detailed discourse can hold one's interest by having such an avuncular reader guiding the way. J.A.H. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 07]