PART OF ME

National Book Award winner Holt offers a multigenerational saga in the Southern tradition. The listener hears narrator Kate Reading's affinity for Holt's characters as she gives life to matriarch Rose, equal parts dreamer and realist, and her family. The story opens in 1939 as 14-year-old Rose is forced to move to the Louisiana bayou, drop out of school, and take a job. For the girl who dreamed of becoming a writer, driving the county's bookmobile turns out to be near-perfect employment. The story continues through four generations. Reading's voice is clear and soothing. Her character portrayals are distinct and effective, and her handling of Rose carries the day. D.J.P. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: JUN/ JUL 07]