THE PILGRIM’S PROGRESS

Nadia May’s reading of this classic is too rushed for contemplative listening, and sometimes even for comprehension. While her high-pitched voice is distinctive, her quick pace prevents effective delivery of dialogue and description. As the story of a journey, an allegory for redemption, a more measured pace with moments of intensity would be better suited for conveying the struggle of progress. A final quarrel with this recording is that Bunyan’s “apology,” which traditionally precedes the story, is relegated to the final disc, making it seem an afterthought in the production. R.F. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine [Published: APR/ MAY 07]